Joseph McKenna

For over 70 years, the Sarasota Orchestra has been entertaining music lovers from around the region, and visitors from around the world. The 80-member Orchestra performs more than 100 classical, pops and family concerts each year, and thrives as the oldest continuing orchestra in the state of Florida. In 2008 the organization unveiled a new name and logo with a package that offers new series, new concerts and a whole new way to experience live music, along with the timeless classics. An arts leader in the community, the Sarasota Orchestra has a dual mission dedicated to exquisite performance and first-class musical education. The Sarasota Orchestra's acclaimed music education program includes the 60-year-old Youth Orchestra, which features five ensembles – the most advanced of which, The Youth Philharmonic, made its Carnegie Hall debut in 2008. The Sarasota Orchestra also offers music lessons for students of all ages and abilities, sponsors multiple community outreach programs and is the parent program of the Sarasota Music Festival.