At least two paintings feature Carias himself. In one, he and fellow artists sit in a local bar; in another, he is playing the trumpet with wisps of music cascading around him.

The Dominican Republic native became proficient at piano and trumpet at a young age.

In a career spanning five decades, he has been composer, arranger, conductor, band leader and vocalist and can play not only piano and trumpet but also trombone, French horn, vibraphone and clavietta. He has recorded 10 jazz records, and he has played with Dave Brubeck, Astrud Gilberto, Gary Burton and Tito Rodriguez.

Not one to shy away from a challenge, Carias is still learning. He proudly opens up the cases of his harmonica and then his steel drum, the letters of the notes taped to the drum's surface as he practices.

After spending 17 years as first trumpet player at the Dominican National Symphonic Orchestra, 12 years as musical director at hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and composing and directing "Los Cocuyos del Campito" (The Fireflies in the Country). Carias talked about the life of a musician in Cary.

Q: How did you end up in Cary?

A: We came here to visit my son when he got a job at IBM about ten years ago. It was so peaceful here. We sold our house in Florida and moved here, and a few years ago, our daughter, who is a teacher, moved here, too. We love it.

Q: How is the Cary area for a musician?

A: Although there are not a lot of places to perform like there might be in a big city like New York or San Francisco, the professional musicians here are very receptive. They are so welcoming when they see how professional you are. I am working every week, from Wednesdays at Sullivan's Steakhouse in Raleigh to once a month at Brasa Steakhouse, Oliver Twist and Fairfield Inn at Brier Creek.

Q: I read that you have a few favorite songs, one of them being "My Funny Valentine." What makes a piece of music special to you?

A: Sometimes composers write the lyrics, then set them to music, or the other way around.

But the best music, themes and lyrics work together seamlessly. In all good music, love is the most important theme.

When you were in love for the first time, I'm sure you remember the song they were playing.

Q: How do you think the Cary area is doing as a community in supporting the arts?

A: People here are very aware of the importance of the arts. Families take children to the ballet and concerts. When you visit the museum of art, many people are there. People go to the exhibits, to the theater. Although there are no big cities in North Carolina, there are still good symphony orchestras and good musicians.

I have traveled all over North Carolina. This state is completely different, unique in the United States.

The people here are quality. I hope that we will remain like that for many years.