Calling All Singers!
Join Panama City Symphony’s Adult & Children’s Choruses!
The Panama City Symphony is thrilled to launch a new choral experience for singers of all ages!
Whether you are a seasoned vocalist or a young student discovering the joy of music, we invite you to join us for a season of singing, culminating in performing with the Panama City Symphony at the annual Holiday by the Bay!
Audition Dates
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Time: 6:00–9:00 PM
Who Can Audition
- Adults of all voice types
- Students in grades 3 – 5 (Children’s Chorus)
Adults:
Please prepare a short unaccompanied solo. Short pitch-matching and other exercises may be included.
Children:
Prepare the first verse of “My Country Tis of Thee”. Short pitch-matching and other exercises may be included.
Rehearsal Schedule
Adult Choir
Thursdays | November 6, 13, 20 • December 4, 11
6:00–8:30 PM
Children’s Chorus
Thursdays | November 6, 13, 20 • December 4, 11
6:00–7:30 PM
Auditions & Rehearsals Location
First United Methodist Church, 822 E Hwy 98, Panama City, FL 32401
Holiday Concert Performance
Holiday by the Bay with Panama City Symphony
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Barbara W. Nelson Performing Arts Center
1200 Harrison Ave, Panama City, FL 32401
Concert Day Schedule (Both Choirs)
1:30 – 2:30 PM: Warm-up
2:30 – 5:30 PM: Rehearsal with Orchestra
7:00 PM: Performance
Required Concert Attire
Adult Choir:
- Men: Black tuxedo or suit, white shirt, black bow tie
- Women: Long black dress or all-black professional attire
Children’s Chorus:
- Standard choir robes will be provided.
REGISTRATION IS DUE BY SEPTEMBER 5, 2025
CHILDREN’S CHORUS CONDUCTOR
Kenny Kirkland
Honored Music Educator | Mentor | Advocate for Young Voices
With over 35 years of dedicated service to Bay District Schools, Kenny Kirkland has shaped the musical lives of generations in Panama City through his tireless commitment to music education. A three-time Teacher of the Year at Patronis Elementary and two-time honoree at Waller Elementary, Mr. Kirkland was named the 2023–2024 Bay District Schools Teacher of the Year, a crowning recognition of his exceptional career.
Mr. Kirkland’s influence extends beyond the classroom. He has served as Guest Conductor of the Bay District Music Festival, Past President of the Bay County Elementary Music Council, and an active member of the Bay District Curriculum Council for Fine Arts, Florida Music Educators Association, and Florida Teacher Lead Network. He is a recipient of the WJHG Golden Apple Award and has been featured in both local media and arts publications for his contributions to music and education.
Under his leadership, the Patronis Elementary Chorus has earned 23 First Place awards at Music in the Parks national competitions between 1999 and 2025, a testament to his ability to cultivate excellence and joy in young singers.
A proud alumnus of Gulf Coast Community College, Auburn University (B.S. in Business Administration/Finance and B.A. in Music Education), and the University of Southern Mississippi (M.S. in Educational Leadership), Mr. Kirkland brings not only academic strength but also profound heart to his work.
More than accolades, Kenny’s greatest joy is found in the lives he’s touched—watching former students flourish in the music industry and beyond. His unwavering belief in the transformative power of music continues to inspire the next generation of artists, educators, and dreamers.
