Pascual Martinez-Forteza, Clarinetist
A native of Majorca, Spain, Acting Associate Principal and E-flat Clarinet Pascual Martínez-Forteza joined the New York Philharmonic in 2001, the first and only Spanish musician in the Orchestra’s history as well as being a member of the faculty of some of the most prestigious Music Schools, Conservatories and Universities of the United States, Manhattan School of Music, New York University, Bard College, CUNY and is adjunct professor at Juilliard School. He is also part of the Faculty at Shanghai Orchestra Academy, in China. Prior to the Philharmonic he held tenure with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and at age 18 he was assistant principal and later acting principal of the Balearic Symphony Orchestra in Spain. He has been invited to play principal clarinet with the Berlin Philharmonic under Sir Simon Rattle both in Berlin and in Carnegie Hall, New York as well as with the Saint Louis Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra and Dallas Symphony.
Mr. Martínez-Forteza plays an average of 200 performances a year as soloist, with orchestra, recitalist and chamber musician. He regularly performs with prestigious artists as well as other orchestra colleagues from the New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Concertgebouw and Berlin Philharmonic in music halls around the world including Carnegie Hall in New York, Musikverein in Vienna, Philharmonie in Berlin, etc. In 2004 he started a collaboration with Spanish pianist Gema Nieto. In 2017, they were awarded The Sunshine Award for their artistic and musical excellence, making them the first clarinet and piano duo to receive this prize in over 30 years of this World Art Organization.
He has been a part of several Juries, some of which including the Debussy Competition in Paris, the Dos Hermanas in Seville, Vandoren Clarinet Competition, and the YouTube Competition. He is an active educator and regularly teaches master classes around the world, as well as the Shanghai Academy in China, Buffet Crampon Summer Academy, International Clarinet Association, University of Southern California, Mannes School of Music, Universidad de Ciudad de México, Festival de Clarinete de Lima in Perú, to name a few. His students have been successfully achieving clarinet positions at important orchestras around the globe, as well as winning competitions worldwide.
Named in 2017 Honorary Citizen of Benifaió, Spain, where he started to study clarinet with his father Pascual V. Martínez, professor of the Conservatory of Majorca and Principal Clarinet of the Balearic Symphony Orchestra. He graduated with Bachelor’s in Majorca Conservatory and Masters in Barcelona Conservatory, later moving to Los Angeles to pursue Advanced Studies at the University of Southern California with Professor Yehuda Gilad, and winning the USC Concerto Competition.
Pascual Martínez Forteza is an exclusive Buffet Crampon Artist and Vandoren Artist. He plays Buffet Tosca Green Line, V12 reeds and mouthpieces M30D and BD5.
Gema Nieto-Forteza, Virtuoso Pianist, Music Educator, and Cultural Luminary
Gema Nieto-Forteza stands as a luminary in the realm of classical music, celebrated for her virtuosity as a pianist, dedication to music education, and prowess in cultural management. Renowned for her authentic musicality, intuition, and remarkable taste, Gema has traversed a path marked by excellence and innovation.
From her early days at various Conservatories of Music in Spain, where she earned Cum Laude with Honors in her Piano Master’s Degree, to her illustrious years at the Manhattan School of Music, Gema has consistently displayed brilliance that transcends borders. A Fulbright fellow since 2003, she has honed her craft under the guidance of eminent mentors such as Mauricio Vallina, Dr. Brenno Ambrosini, Dr. Donn-Alexandre Feder, and Dr. Solomon Mikowsky.
Gema’s artistry has graced renowned international stages, including Carnegie Hall, where she made her debut in 2003 with the “Sketches of Spain” series. As a chamber interpreter, she collaborates seamlessly with Pascual Martinez Forteza, the clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, enchanting audiences across Europe, Asia, and the USA.
Gema’s commitment to music education is a cornerstone of her career. As a private teacher in Manhattan, she imparts her wisdom to students of all ages, embodying the belief that music is a transformative force for individuals and communities. Her involvement in educational institutions reflects her dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians. Her distinctive intuition and profound love for children inspired her to adopt the conviction that music possesses a healing influence, especially for youngsters confronting hurdles like autism, ADHD, hyperactivity, stress, and depression. Throughout the years, she graciously welcomed children grappling with mental and physical challenges to her piano lessons. Every week, these children not only left with beaming smiles but also with a fresh understanding, affection, and gratitude for the world of music.
Beyond the stage and the classroom, Gema is an active music consultant and cultural manager. Her expertise in organizing concerts, tours, and events spans both Spain and the United States. Noteworthy endeavors include the creation of the Benifaió Music Festival among other international Festivals. Gema’s versatility extends to various platforms, from performing with the New York Philharmonic “Off the Grid” series to being the Pianist in Residence for the Buffet Group Music Summer Academy in Jacksonville, Florida. Her collaborative spirit has earned her recognition, including the Best Duo Award at the Classical and Latin Music Awards in 2017.
As a forward-thinking musician, Gema Nieto-Forteza continues to explore innovative avenues in music, education, and cultural exchange. Her fluency in Spanish and English enriches her ability to connect with diverse audiences globally, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts.
Gema Nieto-Forteza’s journey is not just a narrative of musical excellence but a testament to the transformative power of music in shaping lives and transcending boundaries. Her legacy is one of artistry, education, and cultural enrichment, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
Beyond her accomplishments as a performer and educator, Gema has made significant contributions as a cultural consultant and manager. She has organized concerts, tours, and events, collaborating with institutions such as the Spanish Embassy and Consulate in the USA.
Gema Nieto-Forteza’s journey encompasses a rich tapestry of artistic excellence, education advocacy, and cultural leadership. Her multifaceted contributions continue to leave an enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
In addition to her distinguished career as a virtuoso pianist, Gema Nieto-Forteza has seamlessly transitioned into the role of a mentor and manager for her exceptionally talented children in the performing arts. Drawing upon her wealth of experience, Gema has meticulously guided each of her children on a personalized path within the intricate world of arts and culture. From nurturing their early interests to orchestrating their achievements, Gema has been a hands-on architect of their success. Her eldest daughter, a burgeoning professional singer, boasts an impressive portfolio, including a Carnegie Hall debut, Emmy award (with her YPC), and recognition in global choir competitions winning 5 gold medals and three Choir of the World first place with the Young Peoples Chorus of New York City at the World Choir Games in 2023 in South Korea. Similarly, her other children, whether as singers, actors, or models, have flourished under Gema’s expert guidance, participating in prestigious events, securing roles in major productions, and earning accolades. Gema Nieto-Forteza’s acumen extends beyond the concert hall, showcasing her prowess in cultivating and steering the performing arts careers of her talented progeny.
Gema’s influence extends far beyond technical proficiency; she mentors many students, from children to adults, not just in piano playing but also as a coach, using the piano as a conduit for positivity and personal growth.