MMA Hall of Famer Venus Rey Jr. Releases New Album Recorded in Italy

Venustiano Reyes, Missouri Military Academy (MMA) Class of 1988, known professionally as Venus Rey Jr., has released "Music for Strings," a new album of his compositions through Da Vinci Classics, a Japanese concert music label based in Osaka. The album was recorded in December 2024 at the Convento delle Domenicane di Santa Maria del Rosario in Cosenza, Italy, and will be available on all major streaming platforms beginning March 13.

The release marks the fourth album by Reyes on Da Vinci Classics and the latest milestone in an international career for the world-renowned symphonic composer, who was inducted into the MMA Hall of Fame for Arts and Sciences in 2021.

"Missouri Military Academy played a vital role in my musical education and professional path," Reyes said. "It is truly a joy to share each new artistic milestone with the MMA community."

"Music for Strings" features three works: "Bachiana Mexicana No. 5 'Sandunguita chueca,'" for strings, timpani and solo violin; "Four Mexican Pieces," for solo violin; and "String Quartet No. 1 'Jewish.'" The recording was performed by Italian violinist Gianfrancesco Federico as soloist and concertmaster, with the Pythagora's Orchestra of Calabria, Italy, conducted by Reyes.

Reyes began composing at age 11 and arrived at MMA already displaying abilities that surpassed what the academy's standard music curriculum could accommodate. Music instructor Col. Churches arranged for Reyes to receive advanced private piano lessons outside the academy, in addition to his coursework and participation in MMA's Jazz Band.

"I got involved in the music department under Colonel Churches," Reyes has said of his time at MMA. "That year -- with strong, permanent and continuous contact with music, and performing all year -- was fundamental for me to become a professional composer and an active musician."

Composer Venus Rey Jr. in Cosenza, Italy.

Since committing himself to symphonic music, Reyes has built a catalog of works performed across North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America, including at Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Basilica of Saint Peter in Chains in Rome, the Tchaikovsky Conservatoire in Moscow, and conservatories in Venice and Ferrara, Italy. His compositions include "Mass for Our Lady of Guadalupe," "A Jesuit Symphony," "Requiem" and "The Fifth of May Symphony."

In addition to his musical work, Reyes holds degrees in law and philosophy and has lectured at the university level. He has published fiction, poetry and academic papers on law and philosophy. 

"Music for Strings" is available now on the Da Vinci Classics website and in digital stores. Streaming begins March 13, 2026.