The Golden Baton Award is presented annually to an individual or individuals who have given extraordinary service and contributions to The Florida Orchestra.
Presented by The Florida Orchestra Guild, St. Petersburg, since 1965, the event this year will be a reception, luncheon, and award ceremony at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, on Thursday, May 4, 2023, beginning at 11:30 a.m. The cost per person is $100 with underwriting and sponsorship opportunities also available.
The Guild is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group and all proceeds from the event will benefit The Florida Orchestra. The awardees, Mrs. Linda and Reverend Joe Cassaly, have supported the Orchestra through endowing the Principal Trumpet musician's chair and through sponsorship of "Inside the Music," a special series featuring Music Director Michael Francis and musicians explaining and demonstrating a composition they plan to perform. And the Cassalys also have a $50,000 challenge grant in place through June 25, 2023. Mrs. Cassaly serves on the Orchestra's Board of Directors. Reverend Cassaly is a minister at Palma Ceia United Methodist Church. Both Cassalys play in the Second Time Arounders Marching Band, Mrs. Cassaly the trombone, Reverend Cassaly, the trumpet, and both sing with the Tampa Oratorio Singers. Orchestra musicians will perform at the May 4 luncheon.
Organized by The Florida Orchestra Guild, St. Petersburg, Inc.