SR781: SR781 Georgia Symphony Orchestra; recognize

This resolution is a ceremonial statement from the Georgia Senate honoring the Georgia Symphony Orchestra (GSO), founded in 1951, for 75 years of musical performances and community engagement in Georgia. It also recognizes the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestras (GYSO), the GSO's educational division founded in 2006, for 20 years of teaching music to young people in the region. The resolution praises Music Director Timothy Verville for 10 years of artistic leadership, including programs like sensory-friendly concerts and outreach to underserved communities. It does not create any new law, spending, or requirement. It simply directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare a copy of the resolution for the Georgia Symphony Orchestra as a keepsake.

• Formally recognizes and commends the Georgia Symphony Orchestra for 75 years of performances and community work in Georgia.
• Commends the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestras, the GSO's youth education program, for 20 years of teaching young musicians.
• Praises Music Director Timothy Verville for 10 years of artistic leadership and program innovation at the GSO.
• Directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare a copy of the resolution for distribution to the Georgia Symphony Orchestra.

The resolution directly names the Georgia Symphony Orchestra, its youth education program the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestras, and Music Director Timothy Verville. It also involves the Secretary of the Senate, who must prepare a copy for distribution.

The resolution carries no legal or financial effect; it does not change Georgia law, create funding, or impose requirements. Its practical significance is symbolic, giving the Georgia Symphony Orchestra formal state recognition for its history and youth education work.

• The whereas clauses describe the GSO's founding in 1951 and 75 years of musical performances across genres including symphonic, jazz, and choral music.
• The whereas clauses note the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestras was founded in 2006 and has operated for 20 years as the GSO's educational division.
• The resolved clause formally commends the GSO, GYSO, and Music Director Timothy Verville for their contributions.
• A final clause directs the Secretary of the Senate to make a copy available to the Georgia Symphony Orchestra.

1. 2026-02-18Senate Read and Adopted (Senate)
2. 2026-02-17Senate Hopper (Senate)

• Kay Kirkpatrick (R, SD-032)Primary sponsor
• John Albers (R, SD-056)
• Michael Rhett (D, SD-033)
• Jaha Howard (D, SD-035)
• Donzella James (D, SD-028)
• Ed Setzler (R, SD-037)

• arts and culture
• music education
• legislative recognition
• Georgia Symphony Orchestra