Alex Peh

Dr. Alex Peh is an Associate Professor and Director of Piano Studies at SUNY New Paltz's School of Fine & Performing Arts. A globally recognized pianist, he holds a D.M.A. from Indiana University and degrees from Northwestern University. His work focuses on cross-cultural musical collaboration, improvisation, and ethnomusicological exploration. Peh’s Fulbright Global Scholar and Asian Cultural Council fellowships enabled collaborations with artists across Myanmar, Greece, and Germany. He is featured in the ethnographic film Intermittent Attunement, screening at the Paris Ethnografilm Festival, and has performed at venues like Carnegie Hall, Roulette Intermedium, and National Sawdust. His grants include NEA and NYSCA funding for projects exploring Afro/Asian tuning systems.

• Education: B.M. (Northwestern), M.M. (Northwestern), D.M.A. (Indiana)

Research interests include Burmese Sandaya piano practices, intercultural improvisation, and global piano traditions. Peh’s trio Talking Gong released albums on New Focus Recordings and New Music USA, with upcoming performances at the Ojai Festival. He directs SUNY New Paltz’s Burmese Saing Waing ensemble, which sold out its debut performance. Awards include NEA grants, New Music USA support, and international fellowships.

• Notable Grants: NEA Project Grant (2023), NYSCA Grant (2022), New Music USA (2021)

Advising highlights include mentoring students Alexander Loveday and Liz Heh, whose performances are featured online. Peh’s work bridges classical training with experimental global practices, reflected in his Fulbright collaborations and ensemble projects.