BIO

Dr. João Figueirôa is a Brazilian-born classical guitarist, educator, and arts leader based in the Washington, DC area. He serves as Executive Director of Marlow Guitar International (MGI), where he has led the organization through significant artistic and institutional growth, doubling its operating budget, expanding educational and outreach programs, and launching new revenue streams. Under his leadership, MGI presents the John E. Marlow Guitar Series, one of the most prestigious guitar concert series in the Washington, DC  region, featuring internationally acclaimed artists, GRAMMY Award winners, and legendary figures of the classical guitar world.

An active performer and dedicated educator, Dr. João Figueirôa has been teaching for over twenty years and is on the faculty of The Catholic University of America, where he instructs undergraduate and graduate guitar students. He has held faculty positions at major universities and has performed and served as an adjudicator at leading guitar festivals and competitions in both Brazil and the United States. Teaching at the highest level is one of his central passions, and his students have earned awards at numerous national competitions and have been accepted into distinguished music programs and conservatories, including Florida State University, Cleveland Institute of Music, Columbus State University, Shenandoah Conservatory of Music, and the Peabody Conservatory. In addition to his university teaching, he has mentored students across a wide age range—from elementary through high school—and has overseen extensive community engagement initiatives, including master classes, school visits, youth competitions, and music programs for veterans throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia regions.

João’s work bridges artistic excellence and cultural leadership. His performances and educational initiatives foster meaningful connections between artists, students, and audiences. In addition to his artistic career, he brings deep expertise in nonprofit management, fundraising, and strategic communications, regularly collaborating with boards, donors, and public agencies to advance access to high-quality music education and performance. He remains an active presence in the international guitar community as a performer, mentor, and advocate for the arts.