Alfonso Montes is a Classical guitarist born in Caracas, Venezuela in 1955. He began studying music since his childhood. After receiving guitar lessons from Carlos Atilano and Leopoldo Igarza he moved to London, where he furthered his studies with composer-guitarist John Duarte (1976-1982). During this time he obtained a ARCM diploma at the Royal College of Music.
Alfonso has continued his analysis, studies and techniques while working with Adrian Thorne; composing together at the Guildhall School of Music. They apply their teachings of composition for teaching people in institutions and festivals, some of which include:
- Cannington International Summer School (1980 - 1991).
- University College of Music in London (1980 - 1982).
- Universtario Institute of Musical Studies in Caracas IUDEM (1985 - 1987).
- Coordinator of Youth Orchestra System Caracas (1985 - 87).
- Gersteten Conservatory in Germany (1988 - 1991).
- Director of the International Guitar Festival in Cambridge (1991 - 1992).
In 1992 he was appointed Cultural Attaché at the Venezuelan Embassy in London and 1998 in Bonn. Between 1998 to 2000 he was under the position of director general of International Relations and National Council of Culture.
Due to Alfonso's convictions as a democratic and Anti-corruption status quo he was considered a threatening subject and was sentenced persecution by the Regime of Lt. Chavez, forcing him to leave the country in late 2000.
Since this incident he resides in Stuttgart with his wife; Irina Kircher - German guitarist and musical educator. They both act as a Montes-Kircher duo, for 20 years. It has been considered one of the most important acts for convenient guitar assembly because, they are very close and are able to record and help each other with composition whenever possible.
Alfonso's music is used in concert, theater and film compositions. He is constantly seeking to get in touch with new musicians to help expose his music. It is represented internationally, as a renowned orchestral, record, ensembles and soloist. . User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.
