By Door County Pulse, Peninsula Pulse — January 1st, 2026
Peninsula Symphonic Band director and Swingin’ Door Big Band founder Jason Palmer is set to retire at the end of 2026. Submitted.
After eight years of leadership, Jason Palmer, music director of the Peninsula Symphonic Band and founder of the Swingin’ Door Big Band, will retire at the end of 2026.
“A lot of people would say that seven is the lucky number, but for me it will be eight,” Palmer said. “Eight years at the helm of an awesome artistic ensemble that continues to grow and prosper.”
Palmer stepped into his role as music director in June 2018 following the retirement of Paula Eggert of Sturgeon Bay, who had led the band for 18 years. At the time, Palmer and his wife, Jamie, were relocating to Door County from the western suburbs of Chicago when he learned of the opportunity to continue the band’s musical tradition.
Since then, Palmer has expanded the group’s reach and programming while nurturing collaboration and community among musicians. In 2019, at his wife’s encouragement, he founded the Swingin’ Door Big Band, a 17-piece ensemble performing classic big band arrangements and often featuring vocal trio Company B.
In addition to his work with the bands, Palmer has served as organist for several local churches and as a member and past president of the Board of Directors for United Way of Door County.
“Jason Palmer has helped transform the Peninsula Symphonic Band, which during the summer exceeds 70 players,” Peninsula Symphonic Band Board President Mike Fordney said. “Now in our 35th year, Jason has elevated both the concert band and big band to new heights. We will miss his leadership, humor and dedication – and hope he’ll return to guest direct from time to time.”
The band’s Board of Directors will announce its search for Palmer’s successor in the coming months. For more information, visit peninsulasymphonicband.org or contact peninsulasymphonicband@gmail.com.
peninsulasymphonicband.org 