We learned a few days ago that Disney is letting go The Grand Floridian Society Orchestra, who have been playing at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for over thirty years. The band has also been playing as The Disney Society Orchestra as a temporary replacement for Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage. Recently, they shared on Facebook their final photo together as The Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.
This photo of both bands in the orchestra was taken in July. The members in the front row (from left to right) are: Herb Bruce, Bobby Pickwood, Gene Hunn, Chris Queenan, Greg Parnell, and in the back row (from left to right): John Katalenic, Harold Johnson, Paul Parker, David Jones, Doug Mathews, Rex Wertz.
The Grand Floridian Orchestra’s final performance at Walt Disney World will be on October 3 in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You can watch one of their old performances below.
There’s tons of places these guys can play on Disney property. Move them over to Riviera so that atleast it’ll help DVC in selling Riviera, which has been struggling.
Absolutely gutted that the Grand Floridian orchestra has been disbanded. Their presence in the Grand Floridian was an exceptional piece of Disney magic and it will be really sad not to see them and have a chat when (fingers crossed) we next get to Florida. Wishing these lovely musicians all the best in this topsy turvey world.
I too will miss relaxing and listening to the orchestra. What a disappointment.