Central Methodist University will soon play host to one of its most successful music alumni, as 1964 graduate Brenda Bruce will return to campus for a piano recital on October 12. The recital will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Kountz Recital Hall in Swinney Conservatory.
Bruce majored in piano at Central while also playing flute in the band and orchestra. After graduation, she went on to continue her studies in Boston, at the New England Conservatory, where she earned a master’s degree in piano performance. She began her teaching career in 1965 as a member of the faculty at the Dana School of Music, where she stayed until 1976.
After teaching at Campbell University and Meredith College for multiple years, Bruce changed gears and became a pianist with SAS Institute and remained until 2001. In 2014, she became the founder and secretary of the Paderweski Festival. Bruce has also been on the advisory board of the Capitol Area Community Chorus in North Carolina since 1999.
Bruce received an emerging artist’s grant from the City of Raleigh in 1992 and the United Arts in 1995, a grant from the State Arts Council since 1995, Regional Artist grant from 1999 to 2001 and a NCMTA Grant. She has been inducted as a member of the National Music Teachers Association, National Guild of Piano, Raleigh Piano Teachers Association, where she held the position of vice president, Carey-Apex Piano Teachers Association, where she was a president, Pi Kappa Lambda and Disciples of Christ. Bruce has also been listed in numerous editions of Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in the World and Who’s Who of American Women.