Ventura Music Festival awarded $50,000 for innovative programming

VENTURA, CA -- The Ventura Music Festival, celebrating its 15th year, has been awarded a $50,000 grant by the Irvine Foundation under its Creative Connections Fund for its 2009 and 2010 seasons.

"The purpose of the two-year grant is to increase the diversity of our growing festival through performances, events, and education outreach that will appeal to a more diverse population," said Cheryl Heitmann, executive director of the Ventura Music Festival. "The grant also will allow us to explore new options, such as adding additional crossover concerts during the year."

In past years, the Ventura Music Festival has welcomed international crossover sensations Manuel Barrueco, Branford Marsalis, Arturo Sandoval, David Lomeli, Poncho Sanchez, and most recently Paquito D´Rivera.

In May 2009, the Ventura Music Festival will welcome The Romero Family. Known to millions as the "Royal Family of the Guitar," this dazzling ensemble was founded by Celedonio Romero with his sons, Celin, Pepe and Angel in 1957.

"Collectively, The Romero Family is the only classical guitar quartet of real stature in the world today; in fact they virtually invented the format," says The New York Times.

Heitmann said an advisory committee of Latino leaders is currently being assembled to advise on best practices in reaching the community.