Luis Angel Medina, Guitar

Luis Angel Medina, founder and director of the Vancouver Classical Guitar Festival, is an accomplished classical guitarist with an active career as both a performer and educator across North America and beyond. Known for his deep musicality, technical mastery, and exquisite sound, he has captivated audiences worldwide, performing in Europe, China, and North America. He has appeared as a soloist with the Greater Toronto Philharmonic Orchestra, A Little Night Music Orchestra, and at leading guitar societies across the continent, such as the Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Regina guitar societies.

Luis frequently collaborates with esteemed musicians and has performed in renowned venues such as the Vancouver Playhouse, the Annex, and Pyatt Hall. He has further refined his technique and artistry through his participation in masterclasses with world-class guitarists such as David Russell, Roland Dyens, Rene Izquierdo, Jason Vieaux, Jerome Ducharme, Marc Teicholz, Iliana Matos, and more. In addition to his performances, Luis is a dedicated educator, recently appointed as Guitar Instructor at Capilano University. His students regularly achieve top honors in local competitions and the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) program, with several achieving Provincial Gold Medals. Luis's teaching philosophy emphasizes kindness, discipline, and fostering a love for music, making him one of Canada's most sought-after guitar instructors.

Luis began his music education in Guadalajara, Mexico, later moving to Vancouver to complete his studies at Capilano University and the University of British Columbia. He earned a Master's degree from the University of Georgia under Dr. Daniel Bolshoy, where he was awarded the Director’s Excellence Award. Currently pursuing his Doctor of Musical Arts under the guidance of Dr. Jeffrey McFadden and Jorge Caballero at the University of Toronto, his research focuses on the music of contemporary Mexican composer Julio Cesar Oliva, as well as the interrelation between the performer, the guitar and the music.

Luis also serves as Director of Operations for the Toronto Guitar Society. He continues to promote the classical guitar through festival organization, performances, and leadership roles. His passion for sharing music drives both his performances and teaching, inspiring audiences and students alike.

Learn more about Luis Angel Medina at www.medinaguitar.com