Ventura, CA. - Arturo Sandoval is back, bringing more brass, more percussion, and more sizzling Latin jazz music than ever before. The Ventura Music Festival is thrilled for the jazz superstar’s return to Ventura for a Valentine’s weekend concert, Sat., Feb. 12, 2011 at Seaside Park.

Each spring, the Ventura Music Festival (VMF) hosts a critically acclaimed series of concerts featuring a lineup of world-renowned musical performers. The 2011 Ventura Music Festival will run from Apr. 28 – May 7, 2011.

When he last performed in Ventura in 2007, Mr. Sandoval was a sensational entertainer, sharing an array of musical languages with his audience. As a renowned performer, Sandoval plays a variety of styles including Afro-Cuban rhythm, classical concertos, smooth jazz, and speedy bebop.

“We are so excited to have Arturo Sandoval return to Ventura County,” said Cheryl Heitmann, Executive Director of the Ventura Music Festival. “His music and life’s journey are an inspiration; his music covers an amazing range of styles.”

Known for his flawless technique, Sandoval is a consummate performer from the first opening note to the last measure of his shows. Because Sandoval’s beat is popular with dancers, concert goers are encouraged to wear their dancing shoes and dance the night away in the venue’s designated dance area.

Joining Sandoval on stage will be the winner of the Ventura Music Festival’s annual Student Jazz Competition. Now in its fifth year, the VMF hosts a yearly competition for young jazz musicians with the top prize being the opportunity to perform on stage with a musical legend. This year’s student winner will be chosen from five finalists at a live concert competition on Jan. 16, 2011 and will perform live alongside Sandoval on Feb. 12.

Sandoval is a four time Grammy winner, recipient of six billboard awards, and was also awarded an Emmy for his work composing for the film about his life, “For Love or Country.”

For tickets and more information, visit www.venturamusicfestival.org.

About Arturo Sandoval
Beginning his melodic journey just outside of Havana, Cuba, Arturo studied classical trumpet at the age of 12, dreaming of musical freedom. After years of traveling and performing while learning additional instruments, Arturo was granted political asylum in 1990 and made Miami, Florida his home. Sandoval went on to compose and perform with famous musicians such as Justin Timberlake, Frank Sinatra, Celine Dion, Pattie LaBelle, and his idol, Dizzie Gillespie.

About the Ventura Music Festival
Founded in 1994, the Ventura Music Festival presents world-renowned classical, jazz, and crossover musicians in historic and intimate venues throughout Ventura and surrounding areas. Today, the festival stands as one of Ventura County’s signature events, attracting upwards of 10,000 concert-goers. The Festival takes place over ten days in April and May, and presents individual concerts throughout the rest of the season.

Each year, the Ventura Music Festival’s Education Outreach Program presents live performances and interactive lessons to nearly 4,000 local students through its “Music in the Schools” program.

The Ventura Music Festival is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. Information: (805) 648-3146 or www.venturamusicfestival.org.