Renowned for his musicality, groove, and knowledge of various genres, Alex Kautz stands out as a distinguished percussionist, educator, and composer. With an unwavering passion for jazz and world music, he has crafted a captivating and distinct musical voice and unique artistic expression.
Alex has been an important part of the NY competitive music scene for the last decade and has played and/or recorded with some of the top artists in the industry today including Tim Ries, Magos Herrera, Nilson Matta, Chico Pinheiro, Steve Willson, Lenny Andrade, Fabio Gouvea, Helio Alves, Victor Prieto and Lionel Loueke among others.
In addition to his work with various artists, Alex has taken the lead in various projects where he combines the sounds of Brazilian music fused with jazz. Notably, he played a vital role as a co-founder of the collective ensemble known as "Trio Afora" and he is releasing his new album, "Where We Begin," with Sunnyside Records in Spring 2024.
A Magna Cum Laude graduate from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Alex received the “Best Achievement merit Scholarship” while attending the prestigious institution in pursuit of a Bachelor’s Degree in Music. He later received a full scholarship award from Mexico’s National Fund for Culture and Arts (FONCA) to study a Masters of Arts Degree in Aaron Copland School of Music in New York.
As an active educator since 2001, Alex has been an important part of the artistic community in different countries including USA, Mexico, India, and Brazil teaching private lessons as well as master classes. In addition he has been a guest professor in Souza Lima Conservatory and College of Music in Sao Paulo, Brazil, JAZZUV School of Music in Veracruz Mexico and in Swarnabhomi School of Music in India and he is currently part of the faculty at the New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music and Mannes Concervatory in NYC.