The News-Press Covers Gulf Coast Symphony’s 30-Year Journey


“You Can’t Confine Gulf Coast Symphony to Any One Genre” – The News-Press
Spotlights 30 Years of Music

For 30 years, the Gulf Coast Symphony has been a force for music and culture
in Southwest Florida—now, its milestone anniversary is making headlines. The
News-Press recently featured the Symphony’s incredible journey, from its hum-
ble beginnings as a community ensemble to a powerhouse of musical versatility.  

In his article, Charles Runnells explores the orchestra’s evolution and its dedica-
tion to bringing an eclectic mix of music—classical, jazz, Broadway, and beyond—
to the stage. As Music Director Andrew M. Kurtz explains, “We have always
played a wide variety of music. What I wanted to do is really celebrate what we
do best and showcase all of the things we do as an organization.”  

The March 30th concert at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is set to re-
flect that musical diversity. Audiences will experience Broadway showstoppers
from Mark Sanders and Heather Ivy, stunning ballet excerpts performed by
Gulfshore Ballet, and an exciting new work by 19-year-old Bonita Springs
composer Frazar Henry. His commissioned piece, Seas of Glass, captures both
the beauty and turbulence of the Gulf, as well as the emotional journey of leav-
ing home. “It’s a metaphor for the uncertainty of growing up and moving away,”
Henry shares in the feature.  

With a program spanning jazz, classical, and musical theater, this concert is more
than a performance—it’s a tribute to 30 years of music-making and the bright future
ahead.  

📖 Read the full article in The News-Press: Gulf Coast Symphony celebrates
30th with Broadway, jazz, new piece from young SWFL composer  

🎶 Tickets start at $39 – Purchase online or call (239) 481-4849.
239.481.4849 | GulfCoastSymphony.org