Our Mission and History
The Palmer Middle School Orchestra is a vibrant and growing
program dedicated to musical excellence and community. In
just a few short years, the ensemble has experienced significant
growth in both size and skill, reflecting the students' passion and
commitment to their craft. Each year, numerous orchestra
members are selected to participate in the District Honor
Orchestra and audition for the Georgia All-State Orchestra.
Under the direction of Zoe Whittle, the orchestra focuses not
only on technical development but also on building a strong,
inclusive community where students support one another and
grow together through music. The ensemble’s mission goes
beyond performance—it's about creating meaningful
connections and lasting memories through the shared language
of music.
Meet the Director
Zoe Whittle is a dedicated and accomplished musician and educator with a passion for inspiring young performers. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Georgia, where she was an active member of the Redcoat Marching Band, the UGA Wind Symphony, UGA Symphonic Band and the UGA Clarinet Choir. Her experiences at UGA not only deepened her love for performance but also laid the foundation for a career in music education. Zoe has also served as a woodwind clinician in numerous schools across the Atlanta area, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to developing musicians of all skill levels.
During her time at Palmer, the orchestra program has continued to grow in both size and quality. With a focus on building strong fundamentals and fostering a love for music, Mrs. Whittle’s ensembles have consistently earned superior ratings at the Georgia Music Educators Association’s Large Group Performance Evaluations. She credits these early successes to the hard work and dedication of her students and the support of her school community and mentors.
Zoe is also an active member of the Georgia Music Educators Association and the American String Teachers Association, where she remains engaged with the broader music education community and advocates for excellence in music instruction.
Zoe is happily married to her college pianist, Aaron. Together they reside in Woodstock, Georgia, where they share a life filled with music, creativity, and lots of pickleball.