Serena Fornay

Rising conductor Serena Fornay is recognized for her distinguished leadership, focused intentionality, and unmistakable passion, as she aspires to share the inspiration and humanity that stems from live, symphonic music with all audiences. Serena believes in the indispensable power of relationship, collaboration, and community.

Serena is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Conducting Performance (Orchestral) at Arizona State University, under the instruction of Dr. Alejandro Gómez Guillén. Prior to her graduate studies, Serena completed significant work experience in arts administration for the Phoenix Symphony. Ms. Fornay holds her Bachelor’s of Music in Music Learning and Teaching from Arizona State University and has taught private, group, and classroom music instruction over the past several years.

Serena has conducted iconic masterworks, such as Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2, and Mozart’s Magic Flute Overture. She has also participated in various conducting workshops, including the Los Angeles Conducting Workshop and Competition, under the direction of Neil Thomson and Scott Weiss. Ms. Fornay’s conducting mentors have also included Tito Muñoz, Alex Amsel, and Julie Desbordes.

An active member of the Phoenix Symphony’s Young Professionals Program, Serena serves on the Young Professionals Council as Vice Chair of Membership & Recruitment. She is also a member of the Phoenix Symphony’s Women of Note, a dynamic and supportive women’s group seeking to inspire change and advance the arts.

Ms. Fornay is originally from Surprise, Arizona and has a passion for the unique desert culture of her home state. In her spare time, Serena enjoys writing, baking, and watching science fiction blockbusters.