About

Canto Bordao began when Valentina and guitarist David A. Russell met at the Edinburgh Festival and discovered a shared passion for world music, storytelling, and the emotional landscapes of Latin American song. David – an accomplished musician with a First‑Class degree in Applied Music – brought a deep sensitivity to arrangement and interpretation. Valentina brought her voice, shaped by years of exile, community theatre, and artistic exploration. Together, they formed a duo rooted in tradition yet open to new expressions, blending their backgrounds into a musical partnership that honours heritage while creating something unmistakably their own.

Valentina Montoya Martinez is a dynamic and passionate multi-faceted female artist based in Scotland, known for her exceptional talents as a singer/songwriter, short story writer and poet, who started out in community theatre. With
a deep love for the arts and a unique ability to connect with audiences, Valentina has built a reputation for her creative versatility and heartfelt performances. Her work transcends traditional boundaries, blending musical storytelling
with compelling narratives and captivating stage presence.
Valentina has a broad range of artistic abilities that appeal to diverse audiences and projects. As a singer/songwriter, she crafts original music that resonates with emotion and authenticity, performing both live and in studio recordings.
She has been compared to Mercedes Sosa, with a touch of Piaf and Violeta Parra, but in truth, Valentina is her own original self, with a deep heart and soul; a voice crafted through many years of exile. Her writing skills extend
beyond songwriting to include creative writing and script development. Valentina’s writing talents brings characters to life with depth, sincerity and compelling story lines. Her comprehensive skill set allows her to collaborate
effectively on multidisciplinary projects, making her an invaluable creative partner with a deep social conscience.