Maria Zemantauski was one of the first classical guitar majors when she studied music at SUNY New Paltz. Now, she is one of the world's few heralded flamenco guitarists and composers.

In 2004, Zemantauski represented the United States at the Seventh International Acoustic Guitar Festival in Sarzana, Italy.

"It is very unusual, even in Europe, to hear a woman playing flamenco-style guitar," said Zemantauski. "The audience was wonderful."

Being one of few female instrumentalists who perform flamenco-style guitar has led Zemantauski on an educational journey. After graduating from New Paltz, she earned her master's in anthropology at SUNY Albany.

"People were interested in my experiences as a non-Spanish woman studying and pursuing a career in flamenco guitar -- a Spanish art form," said Zemantauski. "I studied anthropology to better understand my place in the world as a musician and creative artist."

In addition to her music career, Zemantauski lectures in schools across the country and is the coordinator of Cultural Affairs at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, N.Y., where she is responsible for programming events.

Why New Paltz? "I could study guitar… I could work towards my bachelor's degree in applied music and I could stay close to my family, all while living in beautiful New Paltz!"

Influences: Her mentor at SUNY Albany, Dr. Linda Pershing; and musicians Dr. Mary Jane Corey, Dr. Gundaris Pone, Stephen Funk Pearson and Dennis Koster.

Motivated by: "The inherent goodness in people and the strength of a good community."

Goals: To complete and release her third CD of solo guitar compositions.