The Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra, formed in 1962 by a number of interested community leaders, held only two concerts during its first season. Its first conductor, James Shannon, led 35 musicians in one concert each in Gulfport and Biloxi. In 1998, a nation-wide search was undertaken by the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra for its third Music Director and Conductor. This current 2006-2007 season sees the Symphony performing a subscription series of five classical concerts along with four school-day concerts. A Family Holiday concert and two outdoor, free public concerts - one each in Harrison and Jackson counties - round out the year. Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra as it continues its mission to bring quality music to the people of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.