The Port Angeles Symphony Chamber Orchestra will present two concerts featuring symphony director candidate James Ray. Both are at 7 p.m.

On Jan. 16, the symphony plays at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 301 Lopez Ave., Port Angeles; and on Jan. 17, at the Sequim Worship Center, 640 N. Sequim Ave., Sequim.

Ray enjoys a multifaceted musical presence in the Olympic Peninsula and around the Northwest. He teaches string orchestra in the Port Angeles School District, where his efforts have helped energize a program that continues to enjoy tremendous growth.

Previously, he directed student orchestras in the Salem, Ore., area, as well as the Kittitas Valley Youth Orchestra in Ellensburg.

Ray also founded and directed the Ellensburg Campus-Community Orchestra, where he invited individuals from all walks of life to rekindle their passion for ensemble playing.

He continues to be in demand as an educator, adjudicator, performance coac and guest clinician.

Ray has performed on numerous occasions with the Port Angeles Symphony’s Chamber Orchestra, serving in the violin section and, recently, as a soloist and guest concertmaster.

He has also performed as a violinist with regional ensembles such as the Northwest Women’s Chorale and the Salem Chamber Orchestra.

Between 2003-2009, he served as a bandsman with the U.S. Army Reserve, performing as a violinist, keyboard player and assistant rehearsal conductor.

Tickets are $12 for general admission and free to students 16 and under when accompanied by an adult.

Tickets are available at Port Book and News, Port Angeles; Sequim Village Glass of Carlsborg; The Good Book/Joyful Noise Music Center, Sequim; and at the door.