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About FCP Based in Jacksonville, Florida, the First Coast Pops Orchestra is a volunteer organization with a common goal: enriching our community by sharing the joy of music. Our members include all ages and different backgrounds, but we all share the love of music. The Orchestra A desire to create an all-volunteer orchestra was fulfilled when, in December 1989, the newly-formed First Coast Pops performed an outstanding debut concert at the Jacksonville Beach Flag Pavillion. The founding conductor was Willis Page, a former conductor of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, as well as the founding conductor of the St. Johns River City Band. This original Orchestra consisted of former symphony members, college and high school students, business professionals, retirees, and others. Distinguished guest artists have enhanced the Orchestra's entertaining and educational performances, and greatly added to its fine reputation. Mission The following years have brought changes in conductors, members, and sponsorships, but our commitment remains to exist as a community orchestra, open to anyone wishing to play an instrument with a group of people who love music and enjoy performing for community events. We encourage people to re-discover the joy and fellowship of making music together. Members We are a diverse group, combining many talents as well as backgrounds - including teens, homemakers, business and medical professionals, retirees, music majors, novices, and former band members. We come from all parts of the Greater Jacksonville area, including the Beaches, Orange Park, Callahan, Yulee, and Fernandina. Our current conductor, Roberta Thieme, was a private and public school music teacher, and is well versed in musical theory and direction.