Ethnomusicologist, composer, conductor, and educator Alfred Surenyan has explored the rich diversity of the world’s musical traditions since his undergraduate studies, where his passion for ethnomusicology first began. Over the years, he has studied the folk music of Mexico, the Indigenous peoples of North America, Armenian folk music, Greek folk music, Gaelic music, and is currently expanding his research into Polynesian music. These diverse musical traditions have profoundly influenced his artistic voice and scholarly pursuits.
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The sounds, rhythms, and cultural traditions of world and folk music are woven throughout Alfred’s original compositions, academic writings, lectures, and educational work. This lifelong passion has also inspired Gaia Sings, his YouTube series dedicated to celebrating the music, history, instruments, and traditions of cultures from around the globe. Through engaging presentations, Alfred explores how music reflects the identity, history, and shared humanity of people across continents and generations.
Looking toward the future, Gaia Sings will continue to grow beyond its online presence with workshops, lectures, and interactive discussions on a wide range of ethnomusicological and world music topics. These programs will offer audiences of all backgrounds an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the world’s extraordinary musical heritage while fostering a greater appreciation for the cultures that continue to shape our global musical landscape.