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About Us: A Brief History

According to historical materials compiled by Lavona Dunworth and historian Garnier Blount Minnich, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Guild (PSOG) was originally formed in 1953, but ceased to be by 1963, along with the then incorporated Greater Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. When the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra began again shortly thereafter, the PSOG followed eight years later in 1973 with the election of it's first President, Mrs. Julie Cooper and corresponding Executive Board. The PSOG has been running strong ever since with the help of it's dedicated, creative membership and generous community sponsorship.

 

This season we are celebrating the Pensacola Symphony Guild's 52nd year providing support and funding for the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. With the love of beautiful music as its driving force, the PSOG will continue its mission with the help of people like you, and all that share that same love.

President's Message

Message From the President

 

Music has a remarkable ability to bring people together, inspire us, and enrich the cultural life of our community. As we celebrate the beginning of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra’s (PSO) second century, we are reminded of just how fortunate we are to have a world-class professional orchestra right here in our city—a distinction shared by only about 130 cities across the nation.

We are also celebrating another significant milestone this year: Maestro Peter Rubardt’s 30th season with the PSO.

For the past 54 years, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Guild (PSOG) has been united by a shared love of live music and a commitment to supporting our symphony.  Last year was one of the most successful in PSOG’s history, allowing us to donate a record $51,500 to support the talented musicians who bring extraordinary performances to our stage and enrich our community.

But the Guild is about more than fundraising. It is about people—people who appreciate great music, value the arts, and enjoy being part of something meaningful. Whether you are a long-time member or new to the Guild, the PSOG offers a warm and welcoming opportunity to connect with fellow music lovers, make new friends, and share in memorable experiences. Through our monthly meetings, engaging fundraising events and social gatherings, there are many ways to become involved and make a difference.

I especially encourage you to help make our new members and guests feel welcome. Introduce yourself, invite someone to sit with you, and most importantly, look for ways to become involved in your Guild.

As we begin the PSO’s second century and look ahead to the 2026–2027 season, I am excited for what we can accomplish together. With your enthusiasm and support, we can help ensure that the gift of symphonic music continues to thrive in Pensacola for generations to come.

 

Mary Story, President

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2026-27 PSOG President
Mary Story

President's Message
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Executive Board

The 2026-26 Season Executive Board Members

Each season our members nominate and elect those tasked with providing leadership and guidance in fulfilling our mission. We thank this season's Executive Board for their hard work and dedication.

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President
Mary Story

1st Vice President
Nancy Kelly

Parliamentarian
Jean Norman

2nd Vice President
Paula Drummond

3rd Vice President
Marcia Kichler

Treasurer/Operations
Charlotte Cheney

Treasurer/Special Events
Dawn Pearson

Secretary
Pat Stephenson

2nd Vice president
Melinda Saunders

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The 2025-26 Committees

The following committees are available for all members to lend their talents and creativity.

Auditions

Music Education

Artist Hospitality

Communication

Hospitality

Membership

Photography

Publicity

Reservations

Special Events

Sunshine

System Administration

Website

50/50

Copyright 2026 Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Guild

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