Northshore Community Orchestra

==Northshore Community Orchestra== The '''Northshore Community Orchestra''', previously known as the Slidell Youth & Community Orchestra, is a distinguished symphony orchestra based in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. It is notable for being the only orchestra in the region that offers both young and adult musicians the opportunity to engage in musical education and performance as a lifelong activity. Founded in 1987, the orchestra has been a continuous presence in the local music scene. The orchestra boasts a rich performance schedule, presenting several full orchestra concerts each year, in addition to smaller ensemble pieces. Their repertoire is diverse, spanning classical, jazz, pop, folk, ethnic, traditional, movie themes, and Broadway hits. Signature events include performing at Slidell's Patriot Day ceremony, an outdoor concert at Heritage Park in October, and festive Christmas and Spring concerts. Drawing members from Slidell and surrounding areas such as Lacombe, Covington, Mandeville, and Abita Springs, as well as from the wider Greater New Orleans area and southern Mississippi, the Northshore Community Orchestra is a melting pot of individuals from various professions and walks of life. The age range of its members is broad, with the youngest being 10 years old and the oldest in his 80s, and includes families who perform together, such as spouses, parent-child duos, and siblings. Leadership of the orchestra is under the baton of Mrs. Susan Messina, who has been the conductor since 2006. A Slidell native, Messina holds a master's degree in music from Southeastern Louisiana University and has over three decades of experience in music education. Besides her role with the orchestra, she is also known for her work as a band director at local schools and as a private music instructor at Christy Music in Slidell. The orchestra's operations are funded through membership fees and the generous support of local businesses and individuals. The Northshore Community Orchestra functions as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, making all donations tax-deductible. This financial structure is essential for sustaining the orchestra and continuing to provide musical offerings to the people of St. Tammany Parish. The governance of the organization is overseen by a Board of Directors, with Brooks Trotter serving as President, Craig Ducote as Vice President, Nita Addotto as Treasurer, Michael Caswell as Secretary, and Amanda Kahl-McKelroy handling Music Management. As an integral part of the cultural fabric of St. Tammany Parish, the Northshore Community Orchestra remains committed to fostering musical talent and appreciation within the community it serves.