Gay Burton

Gay brings over 35 years of public school music education and leadership experience to Sarasota Orchestra. During her 18 years as a band director at Concord High School in Elkhart, Indiana, Gay’s marching students were two-time state champions and consistent state finalists, and her concert band students qualified for state finals 12 times. Her school was selected to participate in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade three times and performed in high-profile events such as the Fiesta Bowl Parade, Orange Bowl Parade, and Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade. Her jazz students received top honors from nationally renowned jazz festivals during her tenure, with some going on to pursue professional careers in music.

During the latter part of her career, Gay transitioned to school leadership while remaining active as a clinician and adjudicator. She was tapped to be the founding conductor of the Elkhart Truth In Jazz Big Band, which continues to be a favorite in the community today.

Gay feels grateful and blessed to work for an organization that truly values the goal of ensuring the gift of music will be passed down for generations to come.