GULF COAST SYMPHONY GUILD

Diane Creel, 2013-2014 President

The Gulf Coast Symphony Guild is an organization of individuals who are season subscribers or annual fund contributors to the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra.  Since 1965, members of the Guild have been inspired and moved into action by the Orchestra’s magnificent performances.  The Guild’s objective is to promote community awareness and support of the Orchestra, raise funds for its operation, and provide services as requested by the Symphony Board of Directors.  As our Gulf Coast Symphony Youth Orchestra celebrates its 13^th Anniversary, we commend the members and Director for the contributions they make to the understanding and appreciation of music by students throughout our coast.

Guild fundraising projects have included holding book sales and home tours as well as developing and marketing both our cookbook, Encore! Encore! and our playing cards.  The playing cards project won the Outstanding Volunteer Project Award of Excellence from the League of American Orchestras in July 2012.

This year the Guild will offer two exciting fund-raising events.  The first will be “Tablescapes” scheduled for October 27, 2013 at the Biloxi Visitors Center on Beach Boulevard.  There will be a number of beautiful tables for viewing, wine and hors d’oeuvres for tasting, and a silent auction. The second event will be our Valentine’s Day “Dinner with a Duo” on February 14 and 15, 2014 at Oak Crest Mansion on Menge Avenue in Pass Christian.  This event will feature vocal performances by Richard C. Fleming, Tenor and Kate Sawyer Fleming, Soprano plus a gourmet dinner.  Watch for more information about these events as they draw near.

In addition to raising funds for the Orchestra, Guild members sponsor Symphony concerts, including the first concert of this season, help the Symphony Board of Directors distribute programs and usher at concerts, assist at the “Link Up” school concerts in February, and organize and manage the prize and dessert tents at the annual “Barbecue Under the Oaks” in March.

Guild meetings are held once a month in different coastal homes and venues where members enjoy a variety of music-related programs as we plan our events and projects.  New members and visitors are always welcome.  If you would like more information about the Guild, please call me at 228-388-9712 or contact the Symphony Office at 228-896-4276.

GUILD OFFICERS 2013-2014