2009 – 2010 Season
On Saturday, January 16, it was ‘wand warfare’ on stage as The Panama City POPS presented “Battle of the Batons” to a great turnout at Arnold High School Auditorium. The first annual fundraiser of its kind, the concert featured The POPS’ traditional program of classical and popular musical selections, but with a twist.
The concert was a fundraiser for the orchestra, where three local luminaries vied for the opportunity to conduct the final work of the night’s program. Each tried out on stage prior to the intermission, following which the audience voted for their favorite conductor. Each vote cost $1.00.
The competition was fierce! Contenders Jimmy Patronis of Capt. Anderson’s, WJHG’s Morning Anchor Paris Janos, and Jim Hayden, owner of The Bagel Maker each gave a fantastic performance. Adding to the uniqueness of the evening was the presentation of a very special hand-carved baton to each conductor. The batons were the gift of Mr. Bruce Goldflies, father of orchestra member David Goldflies.