Maria was born in Madrid, Spain. She holds degrees in Guitar and Harmony from the Royal Conservatory of Spain, where she has been a full Professor of Guitar for 13 years. She has studied with Andres Segovia and is the recipient of numerous awards in national and international competitions. She has perfomed numerous concerts in Europe and the U.S., including the recital hall at Carnegie Hall. Ms. Cortes is presently on sabatical and resides in Austin, Texas, where she performs periodically and teaches guitar privately and for the University of Texas' Informal Classes.