Colombian-American Violinist Ray Shows is an accomplished Chamber Musician and Arts Innovator with three decades of creative experience performing, teaching, and administrating classical chamber programs and events. Ray is active in the chamber music community across the country both as a performer and teacher and is in demand as a professional resource for chamber musicians and music educators. As 1st violin and founding member of the Artaria String Quartet my goals are to present high level chamber music performances, mentor the next generation of chamber musicians, and educate audiences on the value and significance of the chamber music genre. I have performed across the United States, Canada and in Europe, on radio, television and the web. I have founded a nationally recognized chamber music school, a national string quartet competition, a new music festival and a summer chamber music festival.Personal Statement: "In my capacity as violin professor at St. Olaf College I profess my passion for the value and importance of music in the human emotional experience. I teach both violin and viola, and coach chamber groups. I also assist St. Olaf graduates for placement in graduate school programs."Specialties: Ray has over 35 years of public and private professional performing and teaching experience both as a chamber musician and soloist. Attenuated skills include public relations officer, personnel management, mergers and acquisitions, contract negotiation, budgets, grant writing, graphic design, webmaster skills and database management.