Bruce Pfeffer, 65
Cell biologist
Amherst, New York
United States

Bruce Pfeffer began piano lessons at age 7, and continued to study throughout his schooling at Pomona College in Claremont, California (bachelor’s in biochemistry). He went on to earn a Ph.D. in cell biology at the University of California at Santa Barbara. The research scientist studies the field of ophthalmology, currently working at SUNY Buffalo and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs-Western New York Research Service. As an amateur pianist, Dr. Pfeffer brings his scientific process to music: “My commitment is such that, as much as I have achieved ‘high-flow states’ in practicing…I feel obliged to find opportunities to perform these masterpieces.” He looks forward to the challenge and excitement live performance brings, and hopes to express his gratitude through his participation here, “to former teachers whose insights took decades to dawn on me.”

COMPETITION REPERTOIRE

Preliminary Round
BACH   Prelude and Fugue in D Major, WTC II, BWV 874
SCRIABIN   Etude in C-sharp Minor, op. 42, no. 5 (“Affannato”)

Quarterfinal Round
BRAHMS   Rhapsody in E-flat Major, op. 119, no. 4
CHOPIN   Etude in G-sharp Minor, op. 25, no. 6
SCHOENBERG   Klavierstück, op. 33b
DEBUSSY   L’Isle joyeuse

Semifinal Round
BEETHOVEN   Sonata No. 29 in B-flat Major, op. 106 (“Hammerklavier”): II. Scherzo: Assai vivace; III. Adagio sostenuto; IV. Introduzione: Largo – Fuga: Allegro risoluto

Final Round
BACH   Keyboard Concerto in D Minor, BWV 1052: III. Allegro