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
President’s Message
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Greetings and welcome to a new season of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Guild as we celebrate 100 years of music with the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. What a thrilling milestone for the PSO and for our community.
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The Guild has the privilege of making this a year of celebration as we carry out our purpose:
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To provide financial support for the PSO
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To promote season memberships for the Orchestra Concerts
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To increase knowledge and appreciation of music throughout the community
Why do we love the music of the PSO? Psychologists tell us that music does a lot for us. Music influences our emotions by provoking joy, sadness, and comfort. It stimulates the brain, improves memory and attention and enhances creativity. Music also offers physical and mental health advantages, such as improved mood and reduced stress and pain-all while providing inspiration and a sense of escapism. Music is a vital part of our cultural expression and is a legacy to be passed down. Plus, it connects us through shared experience.
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For this 100th season of the PSO, your board of directors has planned a year of celebration as we raise funds and awareness and provide volunteers to support our orchestra. Look at the calendar of events on page 8 and contact the chair to see how you can be involved.
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I also encourage you to invite a guest to our luncheons and events. People come because they are asked. The more members we have the more support we can provide the PSO. Who do you know who might enjoy the PSOG experience? Your personal invitation can help overcome barriers to their participation, build a sense of connection and belonging, and create excitement and anticipation. It can change someone’s life for the better. It changed mine.
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Sue Flanders invited me to become part of the PSOG 3 ½ years ago when I had never attended a guild meeting. She thought I might enjoy it. And, I did! You can be the connection that can potentially change someone’s life for the better while also contributing to our guild’s growth.
I look forward to our year ahead and to seeing you at the symphony. Happy 100th Anniversary, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra.
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Jean Norman, President
2025-26 PSOG President
Jean Norman
The 2025-26 Season Executive Board Members
Each season our members nominate and elect those tasked with providing leadership and guidance in fulfilling our mission goals. We thank this season's Executive Board for their hard work and dedication.
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
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