vocalist

Jesús Montoya is from Seville, Spain and was born into one of the oldest Gypsy families. Mr. Montoya was steeped in flamenco purity and power, earning him the name "El Rey Del Fandangos Grande" at age 7 and by age 9 he had started his professional singing career. At the age of 13, he was touring with various professional companies.

Mr. Montoya was the featured singer for the legendary Fernanda Romero, Isabel Vargas, Andres Marin, Pepe Rios, La Cipri & Manuela Salazar, Juan Ogalla, Alejandro Granados, Isabel Lopez, Omayra Amaya, Ciro, Juaquin Ruiz, Esrella Moreno, La Truco, Carmela Greco, Pepa Montes, Manolete, Jose Galvan, and many more.

Now a true master of the flamenco arts, Mr. Montoya is a man of overwhelming integrity who sets a paramount high standard both in self-expectation and in those who work with him. In addition to his Spanish and European touring credentials, he has toured tirelessly with major flamenco companies throughout the United States and Canada to sold out audiences including: Jose Greco, Maria Benitez, La Tania, Yaelisa & Caminos Flamencos, and Eric & Encarnación's "Raíz Flamenca," and with United States-based guitarists Chuscales, Pedro Cortes, Jason McGuire, Roberto Castellon, Ricardo Marlow, Jose Tanaka, and Eric "El Comanche Gitano".

An accomplished recording artist as well, including CDs of original compositions as well as collaborations with various world class artists, Mr. Montoya has released his eight CD with musical genius Osvaldo Golijov and Duetsche Grammophon which featured him as the voice of Ruiz Alonzo. The incredibly staged production and recording of Ainadamar, Fountain of Tears was a double winner of the 2007 Grammy Awards for "Best Classical Contemporary Composition" and "Best Opera Recording" for How I Got My Start. He has also appeared in films such as "Sombra del Sol," "Soledad," and "Gypsy Girl" and is a SAG member.

In addition to being the one most respected and sought after touring flamenco singers brought to the US, he continues to perform with his own flamenco company "Pureza Flamenca," widely known for putting on some of the greatest and most exciting flamenco shows worldwide. This award-winning eleven-member company of distinguished flamenco artists are nothing less than brilliant and tantalizing.

Performances

Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory | February 12, 1999