Alexander Balanescu

Alexander Balanescu is a visionary Romanian-born violinist and composer, renowned for his influential role in post-minimalist contemporary classical music. Born in Bucharest, Balanescu began his musical journey at the age of seven, studying at the Special School for Music. His educational path took him to Jerusalem, London, and New York, where he honed his skills at prestigious institutions like the Julliard School. Balanescu is not just a virtuoso violinist but also a prolific composer, known for his unique blend of contemporary classical and alternative popular music. He founded the Balanescu Quartet in 1987, an avant-garde string ensemble that has pushed the boundaries of traditional string quartet music, often described as more akin to a band than a classical group. Balanescu's collaborations span film scores, visual art, and innovative musical projects, making him one of the most exciting and forward-thinking musicians of our time. His work is a testament to his belief that music should be rich in emotion and connected to movement and rhythm.