2020 Conference  Program Presenter

PETER LAUFFER

Pianist - Pedagogue

“Reading a Lead Sheet and Playing by Ear: Supplements to Traditional Reading Approaches”

Peter Lauffer began his piano studies at the age of four with his father, James, and continued with William and Louise Cheadle of Westminster Choir College. He was awarded the title of the Lawrence Township Scholar in 1969 and was granted a full scholarship to the Lawrenceville School where, upon graduation, he was given the class award for “consistent and significant contributions to the music program”. During this time he was a regular finalist in the Anna B. Stokes and Mary Simon Gindhart Competitions. He received the Stokes first prize in both the piano and voice categories, and was granted an appearance with the Trenton Symphony for winning the Gindhart Competition. 

            He continued his studies at Indiana University with Doctor Karen Shaw where he earned the Bachelor of Music Degree in Piano Performance. He migrated to New York City where he studied with German Diez for eight years. Later studies were in choral conducting with Doctor Michael Mendoza at The College of New Jersey where he received the Master of Arts Degree focused on vocal music.

            Mr. Lauffer has been the Director of Music at The Peddie School and an adjunct instructor of piano at The Lawrenceville School. He taught for the Westminster Conservory from 1979 to 1988 and later began the Jazz Improvisation program for the school's Young Artist program.  At The College of New Jersey, he was staff accompanist, head of the piano proficiency program, and Assistant Choral Director for the New Jersey Governor’s School.  Mr. Lauffer was Director of the Hopewell Valley Community Chorus, and Director of Choral Activities at Mercer County Community College.  From 1990 to 2005, Mr. Lauffer served as Director of Music at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton. He presently teaches piano at Rider University School of Fine Arts to students involved with the Popular Music Studies program and Music Theatre Accompanist program.

            Mr. Lauffer maintains his private studio of 40 years in Ewing Township where he teaches with his wife and duo-piano partner, Marianne. Mr. Lauffer is well known as a jazz pianist and performs prolifically throughout the tri-state area.  He is currently focusing on this aspect of his career developing performing and recording venues.