The Bellevue College International Guitar Series is honored to present guitarist João Luiz. A two-time Latin Grammy nominee and winner of the Concert Artists Guild Competition, João Luiz is one of the most versatile and celebrated guitarists of his generation. Born in Brazil, he brings deep roots in classical and Brazilian music to everything he plays — from choro and baião to the great works of the concert stage.

João has performed across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America, and has collaborated with artists such as Yo-Yo Ma and Paquito D'Rivera. His compositions have earned Brazil's prestigious APCA Award and have been premiered by major orchestras and ensembles worldwide. He currently serves as guitar professor at Yale School of Music.