Maria Zemantauski, coordinator of the college’s Cultural Affairs Program, received a U.S. Congress certificate of special recognition. Representative Paul Tonko of the 20th Congressional district, initiated the honor in October that recognizes her work as a musician, composer and artistic collaborator.
A classical and flamenco guitarist, Zemantauski frequently performs with a flamenco dancer, including a Sept. 28 concert with La Nina and percussionist Brian Melick at the University at Albany Performing Arts Center that garnered this review.
During a recent interview on WTEN ABC News 10, Zemantauski played guitar and discussed her music and career, including her long- time collaboration with the Troy-based Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company, composing and arranging new music for the troupe. She performs often throughout the region as a soloist and with the flexible Maria Z Ensemble that has been described as “an elegantly understated global music ensemble.”
Zemantauski has served as Cultural Affairs coordinator since 2004 and also is an adjunct faculty member. She introduced the online course, “Music in World Cultures,” nearly 10 years ago. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Music from SUNY New Paltz and a Master of Arts degree in Anthropology from SUNY Albany.