Symphony at the Macc
with Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra
Join us for an unforgettable 2024-25 season filled with musical masterpieces that will captivate your heart and soul. From the lively charm of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8 to the dramatic beauty of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1, each performance promises a unique and enriching experience. Explore the whimsy of Stravinsky’s “A Soldier’s Tale” paired with the quirky “Dead Elvis,” and be moved by the powerful voices in Bruckner’s Mass No. 3 with the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers. Delight in the elegance of “Mostly Mozart,” and experience the comic brilliance of Donizetti’s opera “Don Pasquale.” Whether you’re a longtime lover of classical music or new to the symphony, this season offers something special for everyone. Secure your seats today and be part of this extraordinary musical journey!
CEO MAESTRO
You’ve seen him on stage, behind the bar, and frankly everywhere! Meet our CEO Maestro, Dr. Andrew Kurtz. Celebrating his 30th Anniversary Season as the founder, Music Director, President, and CEO of the Gulf Coast Symphony, Dr. Kurtz has been instrumental in growing the organization into one of the region’s most dynamic arts institutions. His leadership has brought a vibrant mix of classical, opera, ballet, and musical theater to the community, all while fostering new work and educational programs.
Renowned for his “passionate, expansive, expert, and musical” conducting, Dr. Kurtz has an extensive repertoire that spans from baroque to contemporary, and across multiple genres. His tenure as General Director of Center City Opera Theater in Philadelphia included over four dozen productions, earning international praise for premieres like Lowell Liebermann’s The Picture of Dorian Gray and Daniel Catan’s Il Postino.
Dr. Kurtz’s accomplishments extend beyond the Gulf Coast Symphony, where he served as the international tour conductor for CANTORS: A Faith In Song and NEW YORK CANTORS. He also led the Symphony in recording TRINITY: CLASSICALLY IRISH for PBS and conducted its tour. Holding a doctorate in conducting from the Peabody Conservatory and a Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Virginia, Dr. Kurtz has called Southwest Florida home for 33 years, where he lives with his wife, Julie, and their son, Benjamin.
30 Years of Gulf Coast Symphony
Learn more about Dr. Kurtz.
BUY TICKETS
Experience the finest classical music this season with our six-concert series at the Music and Arts Community Center. Opt for individual performances or save 25% with the full series package. With a series package, you’ll get first choice of the best seats and keep them all season long. Secure your spot early for these highly sought-after concerts!
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NOVEMBER 16 & 17
Beethoven Symphony No. 8
Join us for an exhilarating evening as the Gulf Coast Symphony performs Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8, a masterpiece of classical music. Often described as Beethoven’s most cheerful and witty symphony, this work is brimming with playful rhythms, innovative orchestration, and vibrant energy. Let the lively and spirited melodies of Symphony No. 8 transport you to the heart of Beethoven’s genius, offering a delightful and uplifting concert experience that is sure to enchant and inspire music lovers of all ages.
DECEMBER 14 & 15
Brahm’s Concerto No. 1
Experience the profound beauty of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Gulf Coast Symphony, featuring the extraordinary talent of guest pianist Dr. Catherine Lan. Renowned for her captivating performances and exceptional artistry, Dr. Lan brings her mastery to Brahms’ powerful and emotive concerto. Join us for an evening of sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts, and virtuosic brilliance, as the Gulf Coast Symphony and Dr. Catherine Lan create an unforgettable musical journey through one of Brahms’ most celebrated works.
JANUARY 11 & 12
A Soldier’s Tale & Dead Elvis
Join the Gulf Coast Symphony for a unique and captivating evening featuring two dynamic works: Stravinsky’s “A Soldier’s Tale” and Michael Daugherty’s “Dead Elvis.” “A Soldier’s Tale” is a dramatic piece that combines music, narration, and dance to tell the compelling story of a soldier who makes a deal with the devil. In contrast, “Dead Elvis” offers a whimsical and modern twist, featuring a bassoon soloist in a playful homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This eclectic concert promises an engaging blend of theatrical storytelling and innovative music, offering a memorable experience for all.
FEBRUARY 22 & 23
Bruckner Mass No. 3 with Fort Myers Mastersingers
Experience an unforgettable evening with the Fort Myers Mastersingers as they perform Bruckner’s majestic Mass No. 3. Join us for a night of sublime choral music, where the powerful voices of the Mastersingers blend seamlessly with the orchestra to bring Bruckner’s profound and stirring composition to life. This monumental work, known for its rich harmonies and spiritual depth, promises to captivate and inspire. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a masterful rendition of one of the choral repertoire’s greatest treasures.
April 5 & 6
Mostly Mozart
Join the Gulf Coast Symphony for an enchanting evening showcasing the brilliance of string concertos. This diverse program will feature a selection of masterpieces that highlight the expressive range and technical prowess of the string family. From the elegant and lyrical to the bold and virtuosic, each concerto will transport you through different eras and styles of music. Enjoy an unforgettable night as the talented musicians of the Gulf Coast Symphony bring these timeless works to life, celebrating the beauty and versatility of strings in a captivating concert experience.
MAY 3 & 4
Donizetti’s Don Pasquale
Experience the delightful charm of Donizetti’s comic opera Don Pasquale with the Gulf Coast Symphony. This enchanting production tells the humorous tale of an old bachelor’s romantic misadventures as he attempts to thwart his nephew’s marriage plans. Filled with witty dialogue, engaging characters, and sparkling arias, Don Pasquale is a joyous romp through love and deception. Join us for an evening of laughter and beautiful music, brought to life by the talented cast and musicians of the Gulf Coast Symphony. Don’t miss this entertaining and heartwarming operatic gem.
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 Southwest Florida Theater Company. 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.