Biography
Alexsander Jorge Duarte was awarded a PhD in Ethnomusicology from the University of Aveiro in 2013, on the completion of his thesis entitled "Folgazões do Mogi-Abaixo: música, caipiridade e paisagens cantadas", written under the academic supervision of Dr. Susana Sardo and funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). He holds a degree in Music (specialising in Flute) from the Federal University of Ouro Preto/UFOP and a post-graduate discipline from the State University of Campinas/UNICAMP (Multi-media Department).
He is a research fellow at the Aveiro branch of INET-MD – Institute of Ethnomusicology, Research Centre for Music and Dance. His research interests focus on acoustemology and soundscapes associated with music and identity. His field work was conducted in South Minas Gerais, Brazil.
He has experience in pedagogy, through his work in conservatories, teaching flute, and music theory and conducting wind bands and choir.
His artistic activities, using the name Alex Duarte, include compositions, performances (singing, flute and guitar), and story-telling. His research centres on "música raiz", "caipiridade", popular Brazilian music and experimental music, and his activities have brought him to South América, Europe and the United States. His first solo CD was released with the support of BDMG Cultural and launched in Curitiba (Paraná, Brazil), under the patronage of the Caixa Econômica Federal. He has participated in festivals, and was awarded first prize (in Brazilian section) at the International South American Festival of Song in 2007, representing Brazil in the grand finale which took place in Punta del Este, Uruguay and featured artists from 10 South American countries.
Apart from his solo projects, Alex Duarte also collaborates with the traditional Portuguese music group, "Toques do Caramulo", participating in festivals and performing in various European countries.
