Juan Alais

Juan Alais (known as Juan el inglés) (1844–1914) was an Argentine musician of British origin. He is considered the pioneer of concert guitar in Argentina.

Alais was born in Buenos Aires, son of Valentín Alais and Felipa Moncada, daughter of Victoriano Moncada and María Acuña, belonging to an ancient family of Creole roots. His father was born in London, England, baptized on May 3, 1807 in the St Mary's Church, son of John Alais and Jane Browning.

Juan Alais was the author of outstanding classics of folk music in Argentina, including Qué curiosa (mazurka), Un momento (waltz), La Chinita and La Perezosa, a mazurka for two guitars, considered his best work. In 1870s, he taught guitar classes in the city, among his students was Carlos Canaveris, one of the precursors of tango in Buenos Aires.