*
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    


Phiip Wilby

Dobcross Wilby ready for Cheltenham

September 5 • A visit from Prof Philip Wilby to a recent Dobcross Silver Band rehearsal has given everyone a musical boost ahead of their National challenge.


Simon Johnson

Johnson takes principal lead at LSO

September 5 • Former Williams Fairey solo trombonist Simon Johnson has been appointed principal trombone of the London Symphony Orchestra.


Bon Accord Youth

Youthful future assured at Bon Accord

September 5 • Fantastic outreach work sees a new youth band set up by Bon Accord Silver Band.


Birmingham Citadel Band

Citadel welcome to the British Open

September 5 • The Birmingham Citadel Band will offer a warm musical welcome to the 171st British Open Championship on Saturday.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Crewe Brass

September 5 • We are looking for FLUGEL player to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Lt Col David Barringer MBE

BMus (Hons)
Conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd