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. 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.

Our annual signature fundraising event is the Golden Baton. This event, along with several other fundraisers, enables us to contribute to the cultural life of the community, as well as provide financial support to The Florida Orchestra.

The Florida Orchestra Guild, St. Petersburg is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling 800.435.7352 within the State. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the State.

2025-2026 EXECUTIVE TEAM
President Margaret Bowman
President-Elect Carol Russell
Development Vice President Shirley Rigo
Membership Vice President Lois Ancona
Recording Secretary Donna St. John
Corresponding Secretary Susan Sullivan
Treasurer Sheila Barry-Oliver
Event Treasurer Gail Phares
Immediate Past President Bette Corboy
Parliamentarian Sara Galiger
Advisor to the President Sydni Shollenberger

Mission Statement

Do You Love Music?

Join The Florida Orchestra Guild of St. Petersburg