Born on December 24, 1966, in Colón, Matanzas, Cuba, Jorge Luis Zamora has established himself as one of the foremost classical guitarists of his generation. From an early age, he was immersed in the rich musical traditions of his homeland, guided by his father, an interpreter of the Tres Cubano, one of Cuba’s most iconic string instruments. This early exposure to music led him to formally begin his guitar studies at the Provincial School of Art in Matanzas at the age of 11.

By 1981, Zamora was admitted to the prestigious National School of Art in Havana, where he refined his technique and artistry, graduating in 1985 with a specialization in classical guitar. Zamora’s dedication and technical mastery have earned him numerous accolades in some of the most prestigious international guitar competitions:

• 1984 – Special Mention, International Guitar Competition, Alessandria, Italy
• 1986 – Second Prize, Manuel M. Ponce International Guitar Competition, Mexico
• 1988 – Honor Award, International Silesian Autumn Guitar Competition, Poland
• 1990 – First Prize, Isaac Albéniz Competition, Havana, Cuba
• 1990 – Third Prize, Havana International Guitar Competition, Cuba
• 1991 – Second Prize, International Guitar Competition, Jalapa, Mexico
• 1993 – Grand Prix, International Guitar Competition of Radio France, Paris, France
• 1996 – Grand Prize & Audience Award, René Bartoli International Guitar Competition, Marseille, France

As a founding member of Cuba’s most important Guitar Orchestra, Zamora has played a pivotal role in promoting the rich heritage of classical and Latin American guitar music. His performances have captivated audiences in over 40 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, including Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, among many others. Beyond his concert career, Zamora has served as a juror in major international guitar competitions in countries such as the Czech Republic, Greece, Mexico, Bolivia, Thailand, and Cuba, solidifying his status as an influential figure in classical guitar. He has performed as a soloist with all of Cuba’s major symphony orchestras and collaborated with renowned ensembles worldwide. His artistry has also been featured in numerous radio and television broadcasts across continents.

Zamora’s performances have consistently drawn high praise from critics and specialized media worldwide. His playing has been described as:

• “A musician of extraordinary finesse.”
• “Technical perfection at its finest.”
• “A master whose interpretation evokes the Golden Age of Segovia.”
• “The reincarnation of Agustín Barrios.”

Prominent magazines, including Le Cahiers de la Guitare (France), Aktuel Guitar (Germany), Guitarra & Laute (Germany), Classical Guitar (UK), and Guitar Dream (Japan), have featured him in their publications, dedicating cover stories and in-depth articles to his work.

Zamora’s artistry is documented in a series of acclaimed recordings:

• 1990 – "Havana Guitar Festival" (EGREM) – Live recording from the International Havana Guitar Competition.
• 1991 – "Jorge Luis Zamora" (EGREM) – Winner of the EGREM Award for Best Classical Music Album of the Year.
• 1998 – "Saudade" (Tyrolis Classic)
• 2001 – "Moors and Christians" (Tyrolis Classic)
• 2012 – "Amazona Express" (RYCY Productions)

Zamora’s passion for music extends beyond the concert stage. At just 17 years old, he began teaching at Havana’s National School of Art, where he spent a decade shaping the next generation of guitarists. Since 2002, he has continued his pedagogical work in Costa Rica, where he teaches at the University of Costa Rica, the National University, and the Conservatory of Castella. His performer and educator work ensures that his profound knowledge and mastery of the classical guitar tradition are passed on to future generations.
With a career spanning more than four decades, Jorge Luis Zamora remains one of the most distinguished classical guitarists of our time. His extraordinary artistry, commitment to education, and unwavering pursuit of musical excellence have earned him a prestigious place in classical guitar. Through his mesmerizing performances, influential recordings, and inspiring teaching, Zamora leaves an indelible mark on the international music scene. He passionately and brilliantly upholds the tradition of the classical guitar.