The 2012 Ventura Music Week runs from Feb. 15 – 19 and features dozens of local and national bands in popular venues around the city of Ventura. Musical genres include rock, blues, jazz, pop, country, Latin jazz, punk, rockabilly and folk. Many events are free or low cost and open to all ages. A full list of participating musicians and venues is available at www.venturamusicweek.com

Ventura Music Week is produced by the City of Ventura Community Development Department in partnership with the Ventura Visitors and Convention Bureau, the Downtown Ventura Organization, the Ventura Harbor Village and Totally Local VC.

Highlights of 2012 Music Week include:

Local Rock Picnic: a free, all-ages music, art and community event in Plaza Park on Saturday, February 18 from 11:00am – 6:00pm will showcase diverse young talent. Bands performing include SkaDaddyz, We Govern We, La Vonettes, D. on Darox & the Melody Joy Bakers, Larusso, Skick, Shaky Feelin’, Zachary James and the All Seeing Eyes, The Grittys, Eyes on the Skyline, Valpurgis, Red Terrain, and Kismet.

Grammy-winning Latin jazz ensemble, Spanish Harlem Orchestra, kicks-off the Ventura Music Festival Season on Saturday, February 18, 8pm at the Ventura High School auditorium. Directed and composed by world-renowned pianist, arranger and producer Oscar Hernandez, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra’s music is original, bold and sassy, yet true to classic salsa rhythms. Tickets available at www.venturamusicfestival.org or by calling 805-648-3146.

On Sunday, February 19, starting at 3:00 pm, Totally Local VC and Zoey’s Café are sponsoring the Wrap Party & Jam with B. Willing James hosting. Free.
“Ventura Music Week has the potential to grow into a major showcase for local and national musical talent. Our reputation as a music town continues to grow,” said Ventura Visitors and Convention Bureau Executive Director Jim Luttjohann.

Step away from the screen and enjoy some quality time with Ventura’s local musicians. Visit www.venturamusicweek.com for the complete list of musicians and venues.

This release is available on the City of Ventura website at www.cityofventura.net.