Jaymes Kirksey has become a national presence as a violinist, pianist and conductor. Entering his first season with Solana Youth Chamber Orchestra, Kirksey brings with him versatility, precision, and an exciting stage presence.  As a conductor and educator, Jaymes has created high quality musical interpretations ranging from Baroque to modern symphonic repertoire.

Kirksey made his conducting debut in 2014 with Young Musicians Choral Orchestra (YMCO), filling in for famed Los Angeles conductor and Hollywood musician Anthony Parnther leading rehearsals in arias by Verdi, Donizetti, Mozart and Aaron Copeland’s Lincoln Portrait with narration by famed actor Delroy Lindo. For five years now, he has served as Music Director for the Bay Area’s acclaimed Young Musician Choral Orchestra and frequent guest artist/conductor for Golden Gate Symphony.

Some of his performances have included Brahms’ Symphony. No 4 with Golden Gate Symphony, Richard Strauss’ Finale Trio from der Rosenkavalier with Frederica von Stade as guest soloist, Prince Igor by Borodin, Star Wars overture by John Williams and a specially commissioned work by famed jazz and R&B singer/songwriter and composer Patrice Rushen entitled Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory.  Jaymes is excited to bring his creativity and musicianship to members of the Solana Youth Chamber Orchestra and the Solano community.