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DIRECTOR

MICHAEL J. GARASI

Michael J. Garasi is one of the most formidable and reputable conductors in the world of brass bands.  Because of his dynamic presence and leadership, both in preparation and performance, Mr. Garasi became the first American brass band conductor ever to be nominated by 4 Bars Rest for the “Newcomer of the Year” Award in 2004, and the “Conductor of the Year” Award in 2006. As an arranger, he has won the “Best New Arrangement” Award at the U.S. Open Brass Band Championships in both 2004 and 2005.
 

Along with the Brass Band of Central Florida, Mr. Garasi continues as Music Director/Conductor of the Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra in Lake County.  In addition to being the Conductor of these outstanding ensembles, Mr. Garasi has recently accepted the position of Director of Bands at the University of Central Florida for the 2007-2008 academic year.

Guest engagements for 2007 included travel to England in November where Mr. Garasi was the first American conductor to adjudicate at the most prestigious entertainment competition for brass bands in the world, the 2007 Brass in Concert competition at The Sage in Gateshead.  In the Spring of 2008 Mr. Garasi will guest conduct the All-County Honors Orchestra in Polk County and the All-County Honors Band in Duval/Nassau County. 

Maestro Garasi served as Conductor of the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra's Philharmonia orchestra from 2001 - 2007 and has conducted the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra.  He annually conducts the Epcot Candlelight Processional and the Tuba Christmas traditional concert of Winter Park.

Mr. Garasi studied Percussion and Conducting at the Eastman School of Music and the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he earned Bachelor and Masters Degrees. His continued conducting studies include two summers at the Pierre Monteux School for Conductors in Maine, under the tutelage of Michael Jinbo and workshops lead by Pierre Boulez at Carnegie Hall, the famed Fredrick Fennell, Roby George, Allan McMurray, and Joseph Kreines.

Quotes:

A notable non sweater was Michael Garasi who was suave and sophisticated (and with a superbly measured conducting technique) in a manner that stood him out from just about anyone else on the day.  This was conducting of the very highest class; superbly controlled and delicate, nothing done for effect or crass presentation.  He was the best conductor on show all day.

-4barsrest.com (International Brass Band website in UK)

Reviewed at the British Open Brass Band Championships September 2005

 

…what a talent this guy is.  From the moment he walked onto the stage he exuded charisma and class at the US Open…All the technique with the baton, his clarity of style and precision of beat were exemplary…this is why we think he deserves to be nominated for this prestigious award.”

-4Barsrest.com 2004 End of the Year Awards

Nominated by 4BR for “Newcomer of the Year Award”

(the only American nominated in history of awards)

December 2004

 

It was a real quality showcase production, full of excellent individual contributions and a real warm ensemble sound.  The Music Director was also outstanding, with a real charismatic stage presence, superb clear conducting style and the ability to control his groups dynamics with subtle nuance.  They were clear victors by some margin.”

-4barsrest.com (International Brass Band website in UK)

Reviewed at the US Open Brass Band Championships

November 2004

 

…wonderful show that would have done any of the world’s top bands proud...this was band playing of the highest order…this was without doubt top notch stuff…From an adjudicator’s point of view, this performance was one we are always thankful for.  The playing and organization of the programme was so far ahead of the others it took away any doubt at all as to the outcome.  Even other competitiors were in awe of Michael Garasi and the Brass Band of Central Florida.”

-Alan Morrison, Brass Band World Magazine, UK

Reviewed at the US Open Brass Band Championships

November 2004