GLENDALE, Calif. -- An new chapter is opening for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and for the city of Los Angeles. The orchestra is welcoming its first new music director in 20 years with a highly anticipated inaugural season ahead.

Seeing Jaime Martín conducting in-person, it's obvious he brings an injection of new energy as he waves his baton, leading the LACO through a rehearsal.

“Music touches a very special part of our hearts,” said Martín, whose official title is Musical Director Designate for LACO.

His musical career began more than five decades ago as a flutist. He’s since risen to international acclaim as a conductor.

Now he’s taking his expertise, and stepping into his new role as the sixth musical director to lead the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.

“I think this was the closest to love at first sight that I could describe in music,” said Martín.

And it was love also shared by the members of the orchestra when Martín first arrived for a guest conductor stint before landing the gig.

Principal oboist Claire Brazeau says she felt an immediate sense of connection with the maestro from their very first rehearsal.

“The orchestra all seemed to really enjoy his beautiful interpretation and I remember that he brought this wonderful energy and charisma to the podium,” said Brazeau.

After a two year search for the right maestro, Martín was offered the job after a second visit guest-conducting.

“People think that conducting is an exercise of power or something like that, I find that conducting is an exercise in freedom,” he said.

And it’s the flexibility of the talent that make up this orchestra that he says make him feel free to explore new things.

“You feel free to ask for things, maybe other orchestras you don’t even dare,” said Martín.

After all those years playing flute, he still feels in touch with his musicianship and he's eager to share next season’s music.

“Now conducting I still feel like one more member of the orchestra,” said Martín.