The JVega Trio
"Jazz that breathes..."
The J. Vega Trio is a jazz band, composed of myself, J, (Juan) Vega (guitar), Vic Estrada (sax/flute), either Dan Clucas or Konstantins Jemeljanovs (trumpet), Chris Coulter (acoustic and electric bass), and Michael Celenza (drums). If we work in the larger format, we're usually billed as "J. Vega & Friends".
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
I've been a professional musician and music educator for more than 30 years, and have always enjoyed performing. I came up with the trio about 20 years ago, and before that I played in Top 40 and Latin Rock cover bands. These days, I've been writing more music for a larger format (quintet) because I enjoy the sound of a trumpet and sax front line.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
We play live in the Southern California area, at public, private, and corporate venues. My band has also had an almost two-year run at Colombo's Italian Steak House and Jazz Club in Eagle Rock, CA, and we've been featured performers at the Eagle Rock Music Festival.
Your musical influences
Straight-ahead jazz, some rock/funk, and blues.
What equipment do you use?
Modified MIM Fender Telecaster with a Jason Lollar Charlie Christian p/u, '94 Epiphone Sheraton II, Epiphone Howard Roberts, '97 Epiphone "Dot", Squier Japanese Stratocaster, Fender Hot Rod Deluxe and Mustang III amps.
