Arts & Entertainment
JCSO Announces the Passing of Maestro J. Wayne Baughman
Baughman was Founder & Music Director of Johns Creek Symphony for 17 years, and was a leader and friend to many in the cultural community.
It is with deep sorrow that the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra announces the passing of Maestro J. Wayne Baughman, the founder of JCSO and pioneer of the cultural arts in the Johns Creek community. As a leader, artist, community figure, father, and friend, he will be deeply missed.
With unwavering passion and spirit, Baughman requested that the community continue to show their support for the arts by donating and advocating for the JCSO and other local arts organizations. The orchestra is currently accepting donations in Baughman’s memory. There will be a public memorial service to honor Baughman’s life. Details for the memorial service are to be announced.
Maestro Baughman transformed Johns Creek's cultural community with the power of music. It was his expressed wish that the orchestra carry on with the season that he so carefully crafted for the community. In that spirit, the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra's Saturday, November 18 concert featuring Kevin Zhu will take place as scheduled at 7:30 pm.
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About Maestro J. Wayne Baughman:
Maestro J. Wayne Baughman came to Atlanta in 1974, where he joined the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Choruses. For 25 years, he was a frequent vocal soloist, chorus member, and rehearsal conductor under the guidance of the late Robert Shaw. On December 1, 2006, the same day Johns Creek became a city, Maestro Baughman assembled 42 (soon-to-be) JCSO musicians for the First Annual St. Benedict Christmas Gala & Holiday Pops Concert. In 2007, Baughman witnessed his dream come to life as the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra embarked on their first year as an established, professional orchestra.
In the 17 years since, the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra has grown into one of the premiere arts organizations in North Fulton County, presenting classical and pops performances, educational events, and showcasing international performers to Johns Creek audiences.
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In addition to Baughman’s work with the JCSO, he served as Vice President of the Cultural Arts Alliance at Johns Creek and chaired the Legacy Center at Johns Creek Task Force.
On October 3, 2023, the Johns Creek City Council recognized Baughman’s dedication and contributions to the symphony and the Johns Creek community, commending the significant impact he made on the city’s cultural arts community. As Baughman’s legacy lives on, the orchestra will continue to keep his memory alive and uphold its reputation of bringing professional symphony concerts and music education programs to the city of Johns Creek.
Adelaide Federici, concertmaster and daughter of Baughman, recalls a phrase her father used often when referring to the JCSO: “The Miracle Continues.” It is with great pride that the JCSO remembers these profound words of our founder, maestro, and friend.
For additional information about the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, to donate, or purchase tickets, please visit www.johnscreeksymphony.org.
