Michigan Humanities Council Press Release

Biography

Peter Bergin’s love for ragtime reaches back to his formative years in Michigan and the live performances he witnessed there. Passing this love onto others is the foundation of his own performances today. Peter’s mission is to celebrate life through music and stories, and he especially loves sharing the rhythms and history of ragtime piano. Classically trained, Peter took a midlife leap of faith and embarked on a full-time music career after twenty-four years working in computer software at well-known Silicon Valley companies. There is not a day he regrets this life-changing decision! Peter’s debut CD, Ragtime In Time, features the classic ragtime of Joplin, Scott, and Lamb. His second CD, Beyond the Maple Leaf, is an all-Joplin release performed on vintage pianos. Peter is widely sought-after for his ability to synthesize and present early American music, and he brings his programs to national ragtime festivals across the country, including the West Coast Ragtime Festival. Playing and singing in the heart of community brings Peter immense joy and satisfaction. He looks forward to bringing ragtime to audiences everywhere as a testament to America's original popular music.

What People Are Saying...

"...a fine performer...I very much enjoyed Peter Bergin’s style of ragtime."

​- Larry Melton, The Syncopated Times
"A talented pianist...he has created a disc that will rank high on the list."

​- Jack Rummel, Ragtime Music Reviews
"An exceptionally talented musician, both energetic and dynamic, a true artist."

- The Glen Arbor Sun
"Peter Bergin is a talented pianist. Besides his musical prowess, he has a lively and interactive personality that connects with his audience throughout his concert. I would highly recommend Peter for any library looking to provide their patrons with a fun and lively concert."

- Carl Katafiasz
    Head of Adult Services, Livonia Civic Center Library
"Holiday and Ragtime concerts with Peter Bergin are amazing and always draw a crowd.  His vocal and piano skills are unbelievable and get your toes tapping as well as your heart swelling with emotion.  Anytime you hear his name, know that a grand time will be had for all ages.  His smooth, easy listening repertoire, fast, fun, frenzy of fingers gliding on the keyboard, and lyrical voice make listening an art."

- Betsy Myers
    Programming Director, Traverse Area District Library 
"Peter's performance was a rousing success at the Music House Museum and Church in the Hills. Not only was the music superb, but he engaged the audience and put smiles on all our faces. I highly recommend him as a pianist to any audience of any age."

- Dorothy Clore
     Board president, Music House Museum, Acme, MI
     Organist, Church in the Hills, Bellaire, MI
Thank you for all the wonderful concerts you've done at Green Acres of Cadillac. I'm impressed with how well you interact with your audience and how you never repeat the same concert. I love when you play the old ragtime songs on the piano. You make the piano come alive and the audience comes alive too. 

- Heather Lorkowski
    Life Enrichment Coordinator, Green Acres of Cadillac

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