Listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra at Walt Disney World

Listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra at Walt Disney World

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

Wander into Disney’s Grand Floridian (GF) and time starts to slip away — back to the Victorian era. Whether you’re stopping by for a respite or staying at the Grand, the breathtaking lobby will beckon you to sit a spell. While marveling at the ornate decor underneath stained glass domes, find a cozy chair, then listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra (GFSO).

The Grand Floridian lobby is a relaxing place to hang out at WDW.

Let time go by at the GF Lobby.

THIS is one of my favorite places to relax while in Walt Disney World.

Find a cozy place to unwind at the Grand Floridian.

Grand Floridian’s second floor seating.

From their prime real estate on a second floor balcony, the Grand Floridian Orchestra perches high above the immense lobby. When the live music starts, it seems to float throughout the multi-storied room, where guests listen from elegant seats on the first and second floors.

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is a quiet respite.

Grand Floridian Lobby.

Others listen from Mizner’s Lounge nestled just behind the band.

Mizner's Lounge is located behind the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

Mizner’s Lounge.

Evenings at the Grand Floridan are even more enchanting once the band starts to play their ragtime, Dixie, and jazz music with some Disney tunes mixed into the playlist.

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

These refined musicians have been led by drummer Patrick Doyle. For 44 years, Patrick was a full time musician at Walt Disney World until he semi-retired in July 2016; he now plays two nights per week.

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

GF Trivia: The Tennessee Waltz was played every day for the “Teddy Bear Lady” as it was one of Lynn’s favorite songs. Lynn would visit the GF often with her husband, Bruce, and then daily after her beloved husband passed away. Last I had heard (and correct me if I’m wrong), she was in hospice care. Her visits are greatly missed by the Cast Members as well as many patrons of the Grand Floridian. If you have an update on this lovely lady, please share in the comments. I recall seeing her as she listened to the music on many of our GF stays and visits.

Tennessee Waltz is played daily by the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.

Tennessee Waltz.

And don’t forget to request one of your favorite songs.

Listen to your favorite jazz music and Disney tunes by the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.

When You Wish Upon A Star.

Request your favorite tune by the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.

Request your favorite tune!

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra Schedule

The current daily schedule has performances listed at 4PM, 5:20PM, 6:25PM, 7:35PM, and 9PM.

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

Band Members

Get ready to mark your Disney vacation calendars! On Sundays and Mondays, the following Grand Floridian Society Orchestra Band Members entertain guests:

  • Bobby Pickwood – Bandleader/Trumpet, Cornet, and Flugelhorn
  • Jeff Phillips – Piano
  • Doug Mathews – String Bass
  • Paul Parker – Drums
  • Dick Fote – Trombone
  • Gene Hunn – Flute, Clarinet, Bass, Tenor, and Soprano Saxophone

If you visit Tuesday through Saturday, the GFSO band members are:

  • Patrick Doyle – Bandleader/Drums
  • John Katalenic – Piano
  • Charlie Silva – String Bass and Electric Bass
  • Davy Jones – Trumpet, Cornet, and Flugelhorn
  • Harold Johnson – Trombone/Vocal
  • Rex Wertz – Flute, Clarinet, Bass, Tenor, and Soprano Saxophone

Dates, times, musicians are subject to change.

It’s difficult to find time to see and do everything at Walt Disney World; I get it. It’s also challenging to find time to rest on a vacation that mostly centers around theme parks. Spending time at the WDW resorts is a fun arrival day activity before your Disney days become crazy busy.

Grand Floridian Society Orchestra

So, when you need to escape the throngs of crowds standing in loud queues, make your way to Disney’s Grand Floridian and let the sweet sounds of the Grand Floridian Society soothe your ears, your heart, and your soul.

Instruments of the Orchestra 1000 Piece Puzzle

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Five Favorite Victorian Themed Hotels in the United States

Five Favorite Victorian Themed Hotels in the United States

Five Favorite Victorian Themed Hotels in the United States

I’ve always loved the ambiance of Victorian themed hotels. Maybe it’s the white balustrades or the ornate fixtures. Whatever the allure, the time-honored interior designs of this era have inspired many of our vacations.

Victorian Themed Hotels

Boardwalk Plaza Hotel

Nestled on the shore at Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, the Boardwalk Plaza exudes elegance at its beachfront property. The oceanfront suites have gorgeous views of the Atlantic ocean. Room service breakfast served in our “parlor” was always a highlight of past visits.

Boardwalk Plaza Rehoboth Beach Delaware

Boardwalk Plaza

Prince of Wales Hotel

Escape to a bygone era in the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, Canada. For a romantic getaway, select an elegantly appointed suite. Prince of Wales Hotel is centrally located to boutiques and restaurants.

Prince of Wales is one of my favorite Victorian themed hotels.

Suite at Prince of Wales.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The Grand Floridian is a favorite Victorian themed hotel of mine. In fact, this is probably my favorite hotel anywhere. Part of the reason for my great adoration is that this is where Michael and I honeymooned, celebrated our tenth anniversary vow renewal, and have spent many other occasions such as my birthday. Plus, I just love Walt Disney World. You might be surprised to hear that WDW has some romantic lodgings.

Disney's Grand Floridian Vow Renewal

Celebrating our Vow Renewal at Disney’s Grand Floridian.

From afternoon tea to dinners at Narcoossee’s, the genteel atmosphere is unforgettable. Even when we aren’t staying as guests of the GF, we almost always make a stop here to soak up the atmosphere.

Hotel del Coronado

Since the Grand Floridian was partially designed with the Hotel del Coronado in mind, this Coronado, California gem steals my heart too. Choose lodging in the Victorian building or in one of the contemporary rooms.

Hotel del Coronado California

Stay in the Victorian building!

Doesn’t this view look familiar? It’s like stepping out of the Grand Floridian!

Hotel del Coronado is a Victorian Themed Hotel

Grand Floridian fans will notice the similarities to Hotel del Coronado.

Dunes Manor Hotel

The Dunes Manor presents seashore charm that I find extremely endearing. One block off of the boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland, this hotel embraces the Victorian era.

I would return to any of the above hotels for another stay. Plus, Victorian themed hotels like The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island are on my travel bucket list

To enhance your vacation options, stay tuned to The Castle Concierge for more in-depth reviews.

Victorian hotels are one of our favorite types of lodging to seek out. Help us find more!

Do you have a favorite Victorian themed hotel?