Born in Bogotá, Colombia, awarded violinist Santiago Salazar has developed a career as an orchestra musician, concertmaster, chamber musician, and soloist. Praised for his leadership capabilities and colorful sound, Santiago has performed in acclaimed venues around South America, Europe, Russia, and the United States. As an educator Santiago has been part of projects such as the Classical Music Institute in San Antonio Texas, the String Project at Missouri State University, and the Aruba Symphony Festival as well as teaching at Missouri State University, the University of Kansas, and maintaining an active private studio. Santiago holds degrees from New Mexico State University, Missouri State University, and is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Kansas School of Music.