*
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    


Brett Baker

4BR Monday interview with Brett Baker

January 4 • In the first of a new series of weekly audio interviews, 4BR Editor Iwan Fox catches up with Brett Baker.


Quiz

4BR Christmas Quiz: The answers and winner

January 4 • There was a great response to the annual 4BR Christmas Quiz — but it did catch quite a lot of people out too...


Regionals

AoBBA to lead Area test-piece workshop

January 4 • The Association of Brass Band Adjudicators will join up with Newstead Brass to present a free Regionals Test Piece workshop for Sections 2, 3 & 4.


thecooperationband

Ramsay takes principal cooperation role

January 4 • Alex Ramsay has become the principal cornet of the cooperation band.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Tewit Silver Band

January 3 • PRINCIPAL Eb BASS position - our enthusiastic team of basses are looking for the right leader to elevate them to the next level. We have a great program of events ahead of us including contests and concerts alongside a good social vibe.


Tewit Silver Band

January 3 • Championship CORNET players - we are looking for a strong front row player to complete our section. We have a great year ahead including contests, hymn and march contests, concerts and Durham Miners alongside a good social vibe.


East London Brass

January 3 • PERCUSSIONIST - looking ahead to the 2026 contest season, ELB are looking for a percussionist to complete our line up. The band is ambitious and keen to further our successful 2025 season of winning the areas and promotion at spring festival.


Darren R. Hawken

PGdip, BMus(hons) PGCE, dipABRSM, LRSM
Conductor, Arranger, Teacher, Adjudicator, Band Trainer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd