The Garden State Philharmonic Symphony Society, Inc. (GSP) is dedicated to a mission of maintaining and operating a professional level symphony orchestra at the Jersey Shore; to giving concerts of cultural and educational value in and for the community; and to fostering such related activities that will encourage interest in and appreciation of music.  The core values of the GSP center around performance, education, and accessibility: to preserve classical music through public presentation; to promote arts education by introducing the children of our community to the wonders of orchestral and choral music; to make such music accessible to all residents; and to contribute vital energy to regional economic development and cultural tourism.

It began with a dream, some musicians, and very little money.  In 1955, a group of community minded people determined that a need existed to provide quality symphonic music to the residents of the Jersey Shore and founded the Garden State Philharmonic Symphony Society.  What began as a community orchestra has become a highly respected professional orchestra, a community chorus, a three-tiered youth orchestra, a volunteer league and a substantial education program, including school-based residencies and courses led by Maestro LaGruth at Georgian Court University and Ocean County College.