International ambassador of Latin jazz, Vermont Public radio host, and distinguished music educator, Ray Vega brings his undeniably brilliant mix of Latin and Afro-Caribbean jazz to the Meeting House on the Green on August 8 at 5 p.m.

Ray has performed and/or recorded with the likes of Joe Henderson, Lionel Hampton, Mel Torme, Jazz at Lincoln Center Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra, and Paul Simon, among others. Allaboutjazz.com sums it up perfectly, noting, “Vega's own style of trumpet imparts the best of his forefathers’ traits: the crisp, intelligent delivery of Freddie Hubbard, the passionate fortitude of Kenny Dorham, the clean precision of Woody Shaw, and the romantic depth of Chet Baker and Art Farmer.”

Vega is currently a senior lecturer at the University of Vermont. Along with coaching 4 Jazz combos, he teaches trumpet and Jazz history. As an educator, he has been invited to conduct master classes in trumpet performance, jazz improvisation, brass performance techniques and Afro-Caribbean jazz throughout the United States and as far away as Australia.