Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s Demetrius Fuller Accepted into Florida Chapter of the Recording Academy; Takes Leadership Role in Music Education
Demetrius Fuller, Founder and Music & Artistic Director of Sinfonia Gulf Coast, has been named a Professional Member of the Florida Chapter of the Recording Academy—currently the ONLY professional member from Northwest Florida. He has also been appointed to the chapter’s Education Committee, helping guide statewide music education and scholarship initiatives supported by MusiCares.
Fuller founded Sinfonia in 2004 at just 24 and joined the Academy in 2024. His appointment comes as Sinfonia prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary season in 2025–2026.
“Joining the Florida Chapter of the Recording Academy is an honor that places Sinfonia Gulf Coast within an influential global network of music industry professionals,” said Fuller. “This affiliation aligns perfectly with our mission to redefine the symphony experience while supporting music education and professional growth in our community and beyond.”
Demetrius also mentors through GRAMMY U, connecting music professionals with college students pursuing careers in the music industry. He has commissioned and premiered numerous works, helping shape both regional and international music culture.
“We are beyond proud of this stellar accomplishment,” added Elizabeth Boswell, board president. “Demetrius is not only a distinguished music professional, but a relevant and engaged industry leader.”
The Recording Academy’s Florida Chapter, founded in 1995, represents artists and professionals throughout Florida and Puerto Rico and includes icons like Gloria Estefan, DJ Khaled and Bad Bunny, reflecting Florida’s rich musical heritage and dynamic contemporary scene. SinfoniaGulfCoast.org.
Students Shine in 16th Annual OAA Poster Contest
The Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA) recently celebrated the winners of its 16th Annual Okaloosa County School Poster Contest, themed “Arts in Outer Space.” A total of 138 creative entries from students across the county were showcased at a public reception on Sunday, May 4, at the Emerald Coast Science Center. Attendees enjoyed live music from Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music and refreshments from Twisted Grape.
Special thanks go to the Science Center for hosting the event and to Melissa Forte Litscher of NextHome Cornerstone Realty for sponsoring. Eglin Federal Credit Union provided gift cards for the winners, while HH Arts, Arts & Design Society, and the Science Center donated art supply bags and tickets for first-place and Viewer’s Choice recipients.
Participating schools included Rocky Bayou Christian School, Crestview High, Kenwood Elementary, Montessori Learning Center, Village Christian Academy, Risen Star Academy, St. Mary Catholic School, Meigs Middle, and Ruckel Middle School.
Winners:
Elementary (K–4th)
- 1st: Christine Blatz, 1st grade – Montessori Learning Center
- 2nd: Rachel Ard, Kindergarten – Montessori Learning Center
- 3rd: Alexa Gonzalez, 4th grade – Kenwood Elementary
Middle School (5th–8th)
- 1st: Aria Berry, 8th grade – Rocky Bayou Christian School
- 2nd: Ahymn Kim, 6th grade – Ruckel Middle School
- 3rd: Trinity Ricciardi, 6th grade – Rocky Bayou Christian School
High School (9th–12th)
- 1st: Jingxuan Lee Song, 10th grade – Crestview High School
- 2nd: Ryan Jaime, 11th grade – Crestview High School
- 3rd: Kennedy Glenn, 12th grade – Crestview High School
To view winning entries and photos, visit: okaloosaarts.org.
The OAA serves as Okaloosa County’s official arts agency, promoting the arts through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Artists Invited to Apply for 30th Annual Festival of the Arts!
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is now accepting artist applications for the 30th Annual Festival of the Arts, set for October 25–26, 2025, at the Dugas Pavilion in Destin.
This juried show features over 100 artists and awards more than $12,000 in prizes! Mediums include painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and more. Artists benefit from amenities like free breakfast, booth sitters, and an awards dinner.
Applications, including four images, are due by June 30, 2025. Fees are $30 to apply and $350–$700 for booth space.
Proceeds support MKAF’s arts outreach programs. Details at mkaf.org or call (850) 650-2226.
