Today we awoke to the devastating news that Disney plans to cancel the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra after 32 years. As a lifelong Disney fan and jazz musician, one of my absolute favorite parts of staying in Disney’s flagship hotel was the daily live jazz. All the musicians have been playing there for years, and were a huge part of what made the Grand Floridian feel GRAND. Waking up and hearing the orchestra outside your door was one of the things that really made the Floridian magical. Coming back from the parks, grabbing a drink, and enjoying their musicianship made the Floridian really special. Great big bands like that are becoming rarer and rarer to see, and sadly the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra will become just another statistic if we don't act.

There is no reason at all for Disney to get rid of such a beloved icon. They are what sets the Floridian apart from every other hotel on property. I understand that COVID has caused incredible financial hardship for them, but there are other ways to cut costs without sacrificing guest experience. Musicians all throughout the country are struggling tremendously right now as it is, and it isn’t right to get rid of these talented players during this time.

Please join me in calling on Disney to BRING BACK THE ORCHESTRA. The Grand Floridian will not be the Grand Floridian without it, and it is shameful that they have done this after these talented players played together for 32 years.