SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve High Impact Funding request for The Florida Orchestra to present a free Symphony by the Sea concert on May 8, 2026, from 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., at The BayCare Sound.
Body
SUMMARY:
The Florida Orchestra will present a free Symphony by the Sea concert on May 8, 2026, from 7:30-9:30 PM at The BayCare Sound at Coachman Park. The outdoor performance will feature a full professional orchestra performing a mix of classical favorites, patriotic music, and popular film scores, led by Resident Conductor Chelsea Gallo.
Designed as an inclusive community event, the concert will provide residents and visitors of all ages with free access to a live symphony experience while partnering with local nonprofits and student performers. The event is expected to draw large attendance, support downtown businesses, and enhance Clearwater’s cultural and waterfront activation.
SOCIAL MEDIA INFORMATION:
• Website: https://floridaorchestra.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FloridaOrchestra/ ,
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-florida-orchestra Instagram: <https://www.instagram.com/thefloridaorchestra/?hl=en>
• Youtube: <https://www.youtube.com/c/thefloridaorchestra>
• TikTok: <https://www.tiktok.com/@thefloridaorchestra?lang=en>
EVENT BUDGET & FUNDING:
*The applicant was previously awarded funding in the amount of $50,000.00 to support The Symphony by the Sea on November 10, 2024. Placer.Ai Data for attendance for that event was 1,700.
The DDB Grant Funding Policy allows for a maximum of $30,000 for High Impact Funding.
The applicant is requesting $50,000.
• Total Event Expenses: $114,659.94
Total Revenue: $65,000.00
• Calculation for DDB Funding Request:
o Total Expenses - Total Revenue = $49,659.94
• Staff Recommendation: $30,000
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends funding in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for The Florida Orchestra Symphony by the Sea concert at The BayCare Sound to cover eligible direct production costs in accordance with the DDB Grant Policy and Procedures. The applicant meets all DDB funding criteria.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this request is available in cost code 1829411-558600, DDB Marketing.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, and supports small businesses.
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for community events, cultural experiences, and waterfront activation.
