Michael J Garasi has told 4BR of his delight and the excitement he felt of conducting Grimethorpe Colliery Band at Brass in Concert last weekend.

The MD of Brass Band of Central Florida was making his third appearance at the contest (one with his own band, one as a judge and now one with Grimethorpe), and he told 4BR that he just loves the contest.

Exciting

"Having now participated at Brass in Concert for three consecutive years, in three very different roles, I can honestly say that this opportunity to conduct Grimethorpe, one of the foremost bands in the world, was truly the most exciting, " he told 4BR.

I found the group to be even more extraordinarily talented than what I had even imagined. This band can do anything! I hope I will have the opportunity to work with them in the futureMichael J Garasi

Honour

"It was quite an honour and privilege to work with, rehearse and conduct in performance this magnificent band. I want to extend to the band my highest compliments and appreciation for their hard work and their willingness to take a chance and risk by inviting this American conductor to conduct them at Brass in Concert."

Extraordinarily talented

Michael added: "I found the group to be even more extraordinarily talented than what I had even imagined. This band can do anything! I hope I will have the opportunity to work with them in the future.

"I look forward to more opportunities to play a role in the continuation of not only building and supporting brass banding in the United Sates, but also in reaching across "the pond" to continue the learning from each other in the UK and other parts of the world.

Youth involvement

It was the emphasis on youth though that really caught his eye: "I feel that those of us in leadership positions in brass banding have a responsibility in continuing and growing this great musical art. One of the most enjoyable parts of the day for me on Sunday was the fine performance of the Youth Band. They are our future, so I see the future of brass banding to be very bright, as long as we continue this camaraderie."