Donald Vega

Grammy-nominated artist Donald Vega was classically trained in his native Nicaragua. Vega immigrated to the United States at age 14 and began learning the language of jazz from mentor Billy Higgins and bassist John Clayton. He graduated from the University of Southern California, Manhattan School of Music, and The Juilliard School where he studied with piano great Kenny Barron. In addition to touring with his trio and quartet, Vega performs internationally as the pianist for world-renowned bassist Ron Carter. Vega is a professor at The Juilliard School, a 2023 Guggenheim Fellow for composition, and sits on the board of Back Country Jazz providing music education to underprivileged youth. His album As I Travel earned a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Jazz Album. His first holiday album, All Is Merry & Bright, was released in October 2024, (Imagery). Vega is currently working on his next album, Legacy, an homage to the masters in jazz who shaped his musical journey. Visit www.donaldvega.com for more information.