Garasi launches new band in Texas
The inaugural rehearsal of a newly formed band in Texas took place earlier this week; the brainchild and personal project of Conductor Michael J Garasi. The MD is known to the banding movement through his work with the Brass Band of Central Florida, which began 25 years ago. He has also crossed the Atlantic to conduct Grimethorpe as well as leading the renowned Brass Band of Battle Creek since 2013.
Since arriving at the UMHB Music Department in Texas the formation of a development band has been a passion project for him and his wife Cherry. The first rehearsal at the university included 52 brass and percussionists of all ages and stages of playing development, most of whom were learning about brass band music for the first time. Commenting on the launch of the band Michael stated, "We opened the doors to players of all ages and experiences; high school students, college students, alumni, and even a previous UMHB Band Director, James Whitis, seated side-by-side, playing and learning together. It was even better than I could imagined; a true example of what brass banding is all about — sharing experiences of music making and friendship."
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