When the baton is raised for the opening notes of the Chamber Orchestra Spring Concert on March 16, their unique sounds will reflect the visionary direction of conductor Nick Salmans, who debuted with the orchestra for the performance of Vivaldi's Gloria in December.

With thirty one years of choral directing in Colorado, Salmans built a reputation for discovering new talent and bringing innovation and energy into choral group presentations that wowed audiences and inspired young musicians to pursue their musical dreams. Salmans brings a wealth of experience both in conducting and in teaching to the four year old orchestra. His musical direction is welcomed by the musicians who also have many years of experience ranging from a few years in a school orchestra to many years of professional performance.

Nick says that he was drawn to conducting the orchestra by the opportunity to be involved in bringing the orchestra to a new level of performance and professionalism. In his own words he feels that the orchestra " fits well with his own desire to grow and experience new things." He spends several hours each week preparing for the weekly rehearsals which he finds both rewarding and exhausting. The musicians look to him for leadership, direction, instruction and musical interpretation. This is a daunting task for anyone to undertake.

The program that has been chosen for March 16 is particularly challenging for the conductor in the there are three soloists performing with the orchestra. The soloists each come with their own interpretation of the music. Nick then leads the orchestral musicians in such a way that the music enhances the performance of the soloist.

The three solosits who will be featured are: D'Rachael, a well known Puerto Vallarta flautist who will play the first movement of Mozart's Flute Concerto K 314, Vicki Shilling on french horn with the finale of Mozart's Horn Concerto K. 417, and internationally acclaimed violinist Moshe Hammer with the first movement of Bach's Violin Concerto in A Minor.

"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to hear not one but three very talented musicians perform with the Chamber Orchestra" says Salmans. Be sure to mark March 16 at 8 p.m. on your calendar. The Colegio Americano (American School) is located near the Plaza Marina. Admission is by donation at the door. For further information, call Mary MacLachlan at 222-7806.