About Us – Florida Orchestra Guild of St. Petersburg

Mission Statement

The purpose of this organization shall be to raise a portion of the financial support for The Florida Orchestra, to stimulate interest in it’s concerts, and to encourage growth through volunteer services and fundraising events.

History of The Florida Orchestra Guild

Organized in 1963, The Florida Orchestra Guild of St. Petersburg, Inc. was originally The St. Petersburg Symphony Guild, an auxiliary of the St. Petersburg Symphony Society. Its mission was and is to raise financial support for the Orchestra, stimulate interest in concerts and encourage growth through volunteer services and fundraising.

In 1968, the St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra merged with The Tampa Philharmonic Orchestra to form the Florida Gulf Coast Symphony. The St. Petersburg Guild continued its financial support of this new and larger group.

The North Suncoast Associates was formed in 1975, joining the St. Petersburg and Tampa Guilds in supporting The Florida Gulf Coast Symphony. “Hands Across the Bay” luncheons were opportunities for members of the three Guilds to exchange ideas and promote a spirit of cooperation.

In 1984, the Florida Gulf Coast Symphony became The Florida Orchestra and the Guild became The Florida Orchestra Guild, St. Petersburg, Inc. Our mission supporting classical music remains the same.

For many years our Designers’ Showhouse was our major fundraising event. We now have the Holiday Tour of Homes and several other fundraisers which enable us to contribute to the cultural life of the community as well as provide financial support to The Florida Orchestra.

2023-2024 EXECUTIVE TEAM

President: Elizabeth (Bette) Dolinksy
President Elect for the past year
President Elect: Margaret Bowman
1st Vice President: Nanette Grasso
2nd Vice President: Lois Ancona
3rd Vice President: Melissa (Missy) Sparks
Recording Secretary: Debbie Baxter
Corresponding Secretary: Susan Sullivan
Treasurer: Rosemary O’Connor
Assistant Treasurer: Eileen Kollar
Immediate Past President
Sara Galiger

Mission Statement

Do You Love Music?

Join The Florida Orchestra Guild of St. Petersburg