*
banner

Garasi leaves Florida

One of the leading conductors in America calls it a day as Michael J Garasi leaves Central Florida.

Garasi
 

4BR has been informed that after nine years at the helm Michael J Garasi has announced his resignation as Musical Director of Brass Band of Central Florida.

Charismatic

During his tenure, the band became the leading domestic contesting band in America, winning both the US National and US Open titles. In addition the band gained critical acclaim for their CD releases and their innovative concert performances under one of the most charismatic conductors in the banding world..

Michael has been an integral part of the band and has a mutual love and respect for the membersPresident, Bob Tucker

Delighted

Florida gained world wide banding prominence when they made their debut at the British Open in 2005, coming 15th, whilst a year later they delighted the audiences at Brass in Concert, where their highly polished programming and high class playing saw them steal the show at the Gala Concert and come 4th at the contest itself.

Enhanced

Garasi's reputation was further enhanced when Grimethorpe Colliery asked him to direct their Brass in Concert programme in 2008, coming 3rd in difficult circumstances.

Brilliant

Band President, Bob Tucker told 4BR: "After nine years of brilliant success in conducting the Brass Band of Central Florida, Michael J. Garasi announced his resignation this month."

Bob added: "Michael has been an integral part of the band and has a mutual love and respect for the members. As Michael’s position with University of Central Florida demands more of him and with the band evolving to a higher level organization, they will greatly miss each other."

4BR understands that Michael plans on staying in close contact and will guest conduct as his schedule allows. A search of a new conductor will begin at a local level and expand nationally or internationally as needed.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Kirsty Abbotts

Abbotts flugel role with Grimethorpe

September 5 • Kirsty Abbotts is the new flugel horn player at Grimethorpe Colliery Band.


Brighouse

British Open Countdown: T minus 7

September 5 • 10 bands taking part this year have lifted the famous British Open Gold Shield in triumph...


Mead

Tour marathon for Mead

September 5 • Steven Mead marks a musical milestone with a marathon Asian tour.


Boax

Bands need to tick right Boax at Registry

September 5 • Cory Band baritone player Charlie Boax has joined the Brass Band Players Registry as their new Office Administrator.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Mark Wilkinson


Cornet Soloist, Teacher, Adjudicator, Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd