About Us

Leadership

The dedicated volunteers who bring music to life in Panama City.

Artistic Staff

Music Director

Rachel Cole

Rachel Cole is a Florida-certified music educator with over a decade of experience teaching string instruments, general music, and art. A cellist who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Baptist College of Florida, she has developed and directed fine arts programs at Rising Leaders Academy and Abbeville Christian Academy. Rachel has taught numerous students privately on violin, viola, cello, and double bass, and served as Music Director of the Wiregrass Youth Symphony Orchestra for many years. She currently teaches music and art at Palm Bay Elementary School while maintaining her private studio. Rachel is committed to helping each student grow as a musician and discover the joy of playing.

Board of Directors

Rodney King

President

A local business owner, realtor, entrepreneur, and dedicated community leader, Rodney has supported the Panama City Youth Orchestra for many years. Inspired by a lifelong family tradition of music, he is committed to ensuring young musicians have opportunities to learn, perform, and grow.

Claire Iseminger

Secretary

Gladly, I serve alongside the families of the PCYO to ensure the rightful place music deserves among our youth and our local area. Our family has three students currently participating in the PCYO. Our joy is to honor Christ in all we do with excellence and delight, and as Bach put it: music is “the delight of the soul”.

Nadia Mazzei

Treasurer

With a background in accounting and financial stewardship, Nadia helps ensure the Panama City Youth Orchestra remains financially strong for years to come. As the parent of a violinist in the orchestra, she is passionate about supporting youth music education and strengthening the arts in our community.

Mary Courtney

Vice President

A lifelong music enthusiast and the proud mother of two orchestra musicians, Mary is passionate about helping young people discover the joy of music and develop their talents. She is grateful for the opportunity to support the orchestra's mission and serve its students and families.

Fay Dever

Librarian

After returning to the violin following a 30-year hiatus, Fay has performed with both the Panama City Pops and the Panama City Symphony. She enjoys encouraging young musicians and is grateful for the opportunity to help preserve and support the orchestra's music library.

Abigail Demarest

Board Member

Growing up in orchestras and pit ensembles inspired Abigail's lifelong love of music and performance. Today, she enjoys performing throughout the community while helping the Panama City Youth Orchestra provide the same enriching experiences for the next generation of young musicians.

Christy Taylor

Board Member

Having developed a love of music through school band, Christy has always appreciated its ability to bring people together. As the mother of two orchestra musicians, she is thankful to support the Panama City Youth Orchestra and help create meaningful opportunities for young performers.

Get Involved

Interested in volunteering, teaching, or supporting the orchestra? We'd love to hear from you.