Gulf Coast Symphony
gulf coast symphony
Southwest Florida’s Orchestra, Bringing Music to Life for 31 Seasons
A Symphony with a Community Spirit
Now celebrating its 31st season, the Gulf Coast Symphony is proud to be Southwest Florida’s preeminent orchestra. Founded by Dr. Andrew M. Kurtz, who still leads today as Music Director & CEO, the Symphony has become one of the most vibrant and exciting cultural organizations in the region.
What sets the Gulf Coast Symphony apart is its unique blend of professional musicians and talented community volunteers performing side by side. Together, they create performances that are both artistically excellent and deeply connected to the community they serve. From large-scale pops concerts at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall to intimate and adventurous chamber orchestra performances at the Music & Arts Community Center (MACC), the Symphony brings music to life across Southwest Florida.
The orchestra’s programs are designed to inspire, educate, and bring people together. Through bold collaborations, a wide range of repertoire, and a commitment to arts education, the Gulf Coast Symphony uses music not only to entertain, but to build bridges and strengthen the cultural fabric of the community.
Led with vision and passion by Dr. Kurtz, whose conducting has been described as “passionate, expansive, expert, and musical,” the Symphony continues to push boundaries while honoring the traditions of orchestral music. At its core, the Gulf Coast Symphony believes in the transformative power of the arts to unite people, celebrate diversity, and enrich lives.
Our Ensembles
- The Gulf Coast Symphony – an acclaimed regional orchestra with a strong core of volunteer musicians.
- The Gulf Coast Chamber Orchestra – a fully professional ensemble performing adventurous repertoire in intimate settings.
Together, they bring the joy of live music to audiences of all ages through dynamic performances, bold productions, and robust education initiatives.
MEET OUR MUSIC DIRECTOR
For more than 30 years, Dr. Kurtz has been the driving force behind the Gulf Coast Symphony. His conducting has been described as “passionate, expansive, expert, and musical,” and his programs bring a fresh, creative spirit to the stage. Under his leadership, the Symphony has premiered new works, produced groundbreaking collaborations, and even recorded for PBS. His warmth, vision, and love of community shape every performance.
MEET OUR CONCERTMASTER
Reiko Niiya, Violin
Since 2022, violinist Reiko Niiya has led the Gulf Coast Symphony as Concertmaster, bringing brilliance and artistry to every performance. A versatile musician, she has played with major ensembles like the National Symphony and Washington Opera Orchestra, and has shared the stage with stars like Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole, Michael Jackson, and Sarah Brightman. Her passion for music shines through, both on stage and in mentoring young musicians.
Welcome to the Music and Arts Community Center, a 270-seat venue in Fort Myers just off Daniels Parkway. With fantastic views from every seat, it’s a premier spot for live music, including jazz and chamber orchestra concerts, and home to the Gulf Coast Symphony. Founded in 2020 on the cusp of the pandemic, the MACC serves as a community space for Southwest Florida, enriching the area with quality and diverse entertainment. Enjoy our lobby bar and experience exceptional acoustics on an unforgettable night out.
Get to know the MACC, SWFL’s newest space for live music and theatre.
Your Season, Your Symphony: Subscribe to the Masterworks Series
Make the Symphony part of your routine and save 25% when you subscribe to the Masterworks season! Choose the package that fits your lifestyle—whether you prefer a night out with our evening performances or the ease of a weekend matinee. Subscribers enjoy the best seats reserved for every concert, plus the full experience of a season filled with intimate chamber orchestra performances. Want more flexibility? Single tickets are also available for the concerts that inspire you most.