Gerald "Gerry" Willis is the esteemed Musical Director and Conductor of the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra, bringing over four decades of rich musical experience and leadership to the ensemble. His career has spanned a broad spectrum of musical roles, from guiding young talents in educational settings to conducting performances in prestigious venues across the United States. At the heart of his work lies a deep passion for classical music and a commitment to community engagement, making him a revered figure in the musical landscape of Cañon City as both a conductor and a composer of original music.

Gerry's vision for the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra encompasses not only presenting a diverse repertoire of classical music but also nurturing local talent and fostering a love for music within the community. Alongside his wife, Leslie Willis, a distinguished violinist and Juilliard School graduate, he aims to elevate the orchestra's presence and impact, making classical music accessible to all. Their collaborative efforts are central to the orchestra's mission to inspire, educate, and unite through music.

Under Gerry's direction, the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra is poised for a new chapter of growth and excellence. His leadership style is characterized by innovation, inclusivity, and a dedication to musical excellence, qualities that resonate throughout the orchestra's performances and educational initiatives. The community of Cañon City looks forward to experiencing the transformative power of music under Gerry's baton, promising an enriching and harmonious future for the orchestra.

Leslie Willis, a distinguished violinist with an illustrious musical pedigree, serves as the Concertmaster of the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra. A graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School, her professional career is marked by performances with leading orchestras such as The Los Angeles Philharmonic and The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, and collaborations with iconic artists including Ray Charles and Whitney Houston. Currently, she also holds the esteemed position of Concertmaster with the Royal Gorge Philharmonic, underscoring her pivotal role in the classical music landscape of Southern Colorado.

With over fifty years of teaching experience, Leslie embodies a philosophy that views music as a universal language accessible to all. Her teaching approach is characterized by patience and personalization, aiming to nurture and inspire musicians at every level of proficiency. Whether working with young beginners or adults returning to their musical passions, Leslie's guidance is rooted in encouragement and adaptability, making her a revered educator in the community.

As a founding member of the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra, Leslie Willis significantly shapes the ensemble's artistic direction through her role as Concertmaster. Her leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to musical excellence and a passion for nurturing the talents within the orchestra. Beyond the concert stage, Leslie's dedication to music education is evident in her private studio in Cañon City, where she offers lessons in violin, viola, and cello to students of all ages, thereby making a lasting impact on the musical landscape of Southern Colorado.