Mission Statement:
We exist to cultivate and promote music with its transformative power to unite and enrich the lives of youth and adults in our vastly diverse, multicultural community.

History:
Gwinnett Symphony was founded in 1996 by Mrs. Leslie Dedo, wife of the late Dr. William “Bill” Dedo, and Mrs. Nancy Rogers. These Gwinnett ‘homeschool’ moms were devoted to music education not only for their nine children, combined, but for ALL Gwinnett youth who did not have the opportunity to play in a school band and orchestra. These budding musicians became the “charter members” of the then, Gwinnett Children & Youth Symphony. With backgrounds in music education and a passion for educating youth in music, conductors Rick Smith and Robert Trocina were asked by Mrs. Dedo and Mrs. Rogers to “take this new organization to great heights” and to give the youth of Gwinnett County the opportunity to study and perform quality classical and popular music for the residents of our great community.

2024-2025 Officers/BOD
Pam Cook, Acting Chair
Shirley House, Treasurer
Lisa Shankles, Secretary
Carmen Ezeta, General Manager
Rick Smith, Artistic Leadership
Robert Trocina, Artistic Leadership