Disney disbanding Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

The Grand Floridian Society Orchestra, which has been a mainstay at the Walt Disney World Resort for 32 years, will hold their final performance as “The Disney Society Orchestra” on Oct. 3, 2020, the band announced on its Facebook site.

The band which was brought off of furlough had its name changed to “The Disney Society Orchestra” and was playing Disney themed show tuns at the Theater of the Stars in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

“Two weeks ago we got notice that the theater is going dark and our last day of work will be Saturday, Oct 3, 2020. As we all know, these are very uncertain times and can’t say what will happen from one day to the next. So after 32 years of playing together and playing music we love… we’re done. We are so thankful for the opportunity to play in a beautiful setting for the hotel guests and friends we have met & made over the years. We’ll never forget you and how wonderful you’ve made us feel. We will miss you! Thank you-thank you- thank you,” the band wrote.

The band was the house band for Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa playing jazz favorites from 1920s through 1940s with some Disney songs sprinkled into the mix. From their second-floor balcony bandstand, the orchestra’s sounds filled the resort’s lobby.

For those who stayed at the resort, or just came to visit, many did so to hear the band.