Sunday, April 19, 1998 | 2:24 a.m.
Barry Jekowsky was selected from a field of 260 applicants, including four finalists. He becomes only the third music director in the orchestra's 30-year history, replacing Ron Daniels, who assumed the post in 1981.
"I want to say how excited and pleased I am to become part of your family," Jekowsky said at a Friday news conference at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts.
"I adore American music ... I build my concerts around the pleasure principle."
Jekowsky spurned a contract extension with the National Symphony in the nation's capital to accept the Reno position. He just finished his fourth year with the symphony.
Jekowsky will continue as music director of the 12-year-old California Symphony in Contra Costa County, Calif. He said the symphony's schedule doesn't pose a conflict, and the Reno Philharmonic will be his primary post.
The Philharmonic's 26-member board chose Jekowsky for a variety of reasons, including his commitment to teaching children and his love of various musical styles, said JoAnn Coy, its president.
"One of the most important aspects of my tenure here will be entertaining family concerts," said Jekowsky, who will join the Philharmonic Sept. 15 at its 30th season premier.
An acclaimed tympanist and percussionist, Jekowsky has served with the San Francisco Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera and New York City Opera.
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