Michael Alpert

Michael Alpert is a renowned American musician and educator, born in 1954, who has made significant contributions to the world of klezmer music. As a skilled multi-instrumentalist and Yiddish singer, he has played a crucial role in promoting and preserving this traditional genre. His expertise and dedication have earned him recognition as a leading figure in the modern klezmer revival.

Alpert's impact on the music scene has been acknowledged through several prestigious honors. Notably, he was awarded the National Heritage Fellowship in 2015 by the National Endowment for the Arts, a distinction that celebrates the lifetime achievements of master folk and traditional artists in the United States. This recognition underscores his importance as a key figure in the klezmer revitalization, a sentiment echoed by ethnomusicologist Mark Slobin. Through his work as a musician and educator, Alpert continues to inspire and educate audiences about the rich cultural heritage of klezmer music.