Sun Valley Artist Series is funded in part by a grant from the Idaho Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts

Alex Fortes, violin

Originally from San Diego, violinist Alex Fortes is recognized for his versatility and warmth.  Recent chamber music and orchestral performances have included engagements in France, Germany, Denmark, Austria, and Indonesia as well as throughout North America with groups such as the Franklin String Quartet, the Momenta Quartet, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, the String Orchestra of New York City, and the Knights. Recent collaborations have included performances with Menahem Pressler, Yo-Yo Ma, Gil Shaham, Augustin Hadelich, and saxophonist Harry Allen.

Alex is a member of A Far Cry, an 18-person string collective based in Boston that has received praise for innovative programming and thrilling music-making. His playing is featured on A Far Cry's recent album, Dreams and Prayers, which explores musical mysticism through almost a full millennium of music, including a collaboration with klezmer clarinetist David Krakauer.

A strong advocate for the importance of social and civic engagement, Alex spent a year working as an administrator and playing for the Longwood Symphony, an orchestra associated with Boston’s medical community that uses its performances to raise funds and awareness for medical nonprofits. In May 2010, he was chosen by former U.S. Senator and New School President Bob Kerrey to be the student speaker at the New School’s commencement ceremony, where he spoke about the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation and civic engagement for fostering innovation and strong communities. He holds degrees from Harvard College and Mannes College, and his teachers include Mark Steinberg, Peter Zazofsky, Hernan Constantino, Mary Gerard, and Michael Gaisler.