Panama City Symphony

The Panama City Symphony began in 1996 as the Orchestra of St. Andrew Bay, a small group of string players seeking opportunities to play and perform together. It was founded by Elaine Matson, Michael Reisman and Sandy Rosengren. Led by John Boozer, this ensemble soon grew into a complete orchestra, playing a wide variety of symphonic music and training talented musicians guided by experienced adults. At the end of the 1999-2000 season, Dr. Boozer left for a position in North Carolina, and the baton passed to Rusty Garner of Gulf Coast Community College, Division of Visual and Performing Arts. During his tenure the orchestra formed a close cooperative relationship with the college and presented Bay County audiences a series of ambitious and entertaining programs. Mr. Garner retired at the end of the 2005-2006 season.