Christie Peery Skousen is a renowned classical pianist and educator who has made a significant impact on the world of music. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on August 22, 1971, Skousen grew up in a family of musicians. Her father, Paul Pollei, was a well-known pianist and educator, and her mother, Carol Peery Pollei, was a talented singer and pianist. Skousen began playing the piano at the age of three and showed a natural talent for the instrument. Skousen's early musical education was heavily influenced by her father, who was her first piano teacher. She also studied with other notable teachers, including Reid Nibley and Paul Badura-Skoda. Skousen's talent and dedication to the piano were evident from a young age, and she quickly began to make a name for herself in the world of classical music. Skousen's first major performance came at the age of 12 when she performed with the Utah Symphony Orchestra. She continued to perform with the orchestra throughout her teenage years, and her talent and skill as a pianist continued to grow. Skousen also competed in numerous piano competitions, winning several awards and accolades for her performances. After graduating from high school, Skousen attended Brigham Young University, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. She then went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the University of Texas at Austin. During her time in Texas, Skousen won several prestigious piano competitions, including the San Antonio International Piano Competition and the Dallas International Piano Competition. Skousen's career as a professional pianist took off after she won the gold medal at the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition in 1994. This competition is one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world, and Skousen's win solidified her place as one of the top pianists of her generation. She went on to perform with some of the world's most renowned orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. In addition to her successful career as a performer, Skousen is also a highly respected educator. She has taught at several universities, including Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, and the University of Texas at Austin. Skousen is also the founder and director of the Peery Piano Academy, a music school that focuses on teaching students of all ages and skill levels how to play the piano. Skousen's dedication to music education has earned her numerous awards and accolades. In 2010, she was named the Utah Music Teacher of the Year by the Utah Music Teachers Association. She has also been recognized by the National Federation of Music Clubs and the Music Teachers National Association for her contributions to music education. Skousen's passion for music and her dedication to her craft have made her one of the most respected and admired classical pianists of her generation. Her performances continue to inspire audiences around the world, and her work as an educator has helped countless students discover the joy of playing the piano. Skousen's legacy as a musician and educator will undoubtedly continue to influence the world of classical music for generations to come.

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