Sing with the Symphony

Adult and Children’s Choruses

2026-27 Season

Following the magical 2025 debut of our Adult and Children’s Choruses, the Panama City Symphony is thrilled to expand the program, featuring vocal ensembles in two major performances this season. First, experience the majestic holiday spirit with A Grand Symphony Christmas (formerly Holiday by the Bay), a sweeping festive celebration featuring the combined power of both choruses under the baton of award-winning guest conductor Nathaniel Efthimiou. The musical forces for this breathtaking holiday event will be prepared by Adult Chorus Director Christina Burroughs and Children’s Chorus Director Kenny, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and holiday spirit.

Then, in April, the Adult Chorus returns for a historic, transcendent season finale to perform Beethoven’s crowning masterpiece, Symphony No. 9 (the “Choral Symphony”). Performed in its original German at the spacious Helen Blackburn Auditorium to accommodate the sheer scale of the composition, this monumental performance will be guided by Adult Chorus Director Christina Burroughs and Emerald Coast Singers Director Dr. Kristin Wendland.

Join the Chorus: Application & Auditions

Are you ready to share your voice and perform alongside a full professional orchestra? The Panama City Symphony is actively seeking passionate vocalists to join our legacy. Detailed information regarding the chorus application process, audition requirements, and rehearsal schedules will be announced soon. Please check back regularly for updates on how you can lift your voice with the symphony this season!

MEET OUR CHORUS DIRECTORS

Christina Burroughs, Director, Panama City Symphony Adult Chorus

Christina Burroughs, Director of the Panama City Symphony Adult Chorus, is a versatile lyric soprano who has performed leading roles like Mimi in La Bohème and Pamina in Die Zauberflöte across the U.S., Christina brings over two decades of professional stage experience and a Master’s from the San Francisco Conservatory. Christina will be coaching the chorus to sing in German for their performance of “Ode to Joy.”

Kenny Kirkland, Director, Panama City Symphony Children’s Chorus

For over 35 years, Kenny Kirkland, Director of the Panama City Symphony Children’s Chorus, has shaped generations of young musicians in Bay District Schools. A former District Teacher of the Year, he has served as Guest Conductor for the Bay District Music Festival and Past President of the Bay County Elementary Music Council. Under his direction, the Patronis Elementary Chorus earned numerous national first-place awards, cementing his legacy of transforming student lives through music.

Dr. Kristin Wendland, Director, Emerald Coast Singers

Dr. Kristin Wendland, Director, Emerald Coast Singers, is a Teaching Professor Emerita from Emory University and a Fulbright scholar with a Ph.D. in Composition. Dr. Wendland is a renowned music theorist and author who brings a wealth of international research and professional artistry to this choral collaboration.

Sing with the Symphony