Orquesta de Baja California Appoints New Concertmaster

US-Mexican violinist Luis Angel Salazar Avila will step into the role

The US-Mexican violinist Luis Angel Salazar Avila has been appointed as the new Concertmaster of Mexico's Orquesta de Baja California.

Hailing originally from Mexico, Salazar then moved to Chicago, where he studied for a master's degree at DePaul University and appeared in the St Petersburg String Quartet.

He has previously appeared with the Great Falls Symphony, the Cascade String Quartet, and the Erie Philharmonic. Salazar went on to become a fellow at Miami’s New World Symphony and has recently concluded a one-year contract with the Louisville Orchestra.

In addition, he has appeared as a deputy player for the Minnesota Orchestra, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and the Peninsula Music Festival, among others.

Salazar has received assistance from the National Alliance for Audition Support, an initiative led by the Sphinx Organization in collaboration with the League of American Orchestras, America’s Orchestral Academy, and the New World Symphony.

Formed in 1990, the Orquestra de Baja California has received two Latin GRAMMY nominations. Its principal conductor is Armando Pesqueira.

"Luis’s dedication to musical excellence shines bright," wrote the Sphinx Organization on social media. "He brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Here’s to the next chapter of beautiful melodies and inspiring performances!"