After seven decades of musical contribution to the community, Saratoga Chamber Orchestra Artistic Director and Conductor Legh W. Burns has announced he is stepping down from both positions, effective November 2012.

Burns, who founded the orchestra in 2007, has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, which adversely affects his vision, and pulmonary arterial hypertension.

“It was beginning to affect my ability to rehearse effectively,” he said in a release. “The orchestra clearly deserves better.”

He will make one more appearance, conducting the first concert of the 2012-2013 season on Sunday, Nov. 4 at South Whidbey High School in Langley. The balance of the 2012-2013 season will be led by guest conductors and plans to appoint a new music director have begun.

“I’m excited about the future of the orchestra,” Burns said. “Our board of directors and advisory committee are dedicated not only to the sustainability, but the growth of Saratoga Chamber Orchestra, and to raising our standard of performance even higher. I am in full support of their efforts.”

Board of Directors President Michael Lauver said he was sad to see “Maestro Burns” step away from the podium.

“Legh Burns was the driving force behind the establishment of Saratoga Chamber Orchestra and has led them to heightened levels of performance. Legh’s passion for music, artistic ability and commitment to excellence have been a blessing for classical music lovers on Whidbey Island,” said Lauver in a press release. “The board and Orchestra Advisory Committee are making careful plans for the selection of a new conductor. We want to make sure that our conductor will be a dynamic leader, an integral part of the community and provide our audiences with the same superb performances they have enjoyed under the baton of Maestro Burns.”

For details, visit www.saratogachamber orchestra.org.