Gita Karasik Appointed Founding Board Chair, FIU Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music & Performing Arts

Dean Brian Schriner is proud to announce the appointment of Ms. Gita Karasik as the Founding Chair of the Dean’s Advisory Board for The Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music & Performing Arts (The Wertheim).

An acclaimed concert pianist and child prodigy, Ms. Karasik brings an extraordinary breadth of experience, a passion for music, and a deep commitment to arts education and advocacy.

“We are honored to welcome Gita Karasik,” said Dr. Karen Veloz, Director of The Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music and Performing Arts. “Her remarkable career and leadership in the arts community, coupled with her profound understanding of music, make her an inspiring choice to lead our Board.”

Gita Karasik China Tour
Gita’s China Tour: Americas 1st Concert Pianist to PRC along with Isaac Stern, violinist  & Martha Graham, dancer.

Gita Karasik

Founding Board Chair

Ms. Karasik’s musical journey began at a young age, and she quickly gained recognition as a child prodigy. Her performances with orchestras around the world have captivated audiences and critics alike.

Notably, Ms. Karasik was the first American concert pianist invited to tour the People’s Republic of China after the borders were opened by President Nixon, marking a historic moment in cultural exchange. She has also graced the national stage as a child soloist on the NBC Bell Telephone Hour, showcasing her exceptional talent and artistry.

In addition to her illustrious performance career, Ms. Karasik has distinguished herself as a recipient of grants from The National Endowment for the Arts, the Rockefeller and Ford Foundations, and numerous other prestigious global musical organizations.

Ms. Karasik’s commitment to the arts extends beyond performance, as she actively has been involved in supporting arts education and cultural initiatives for over 50 years.

“In a generation with so many brilliant pianists that one must wonder what the world possibly can do with them all, Gita Karasik is something different — a brilliant musician who plays the piano.”

– National Public Radio by Joseph McClellan, Head Critic for The Washington Post

“an arresting keyboard artist … a prodigious technique and musicality, a gorgeous sound and an individual approach to music that is as fresh as it is unmannered.”

– Chicago Tribune

“beautiful piano playing, polished to the echo. She has one of the best balanced total commands of the instrument in the field.”

– San Francisco Chronicle

“a big, beautiful tone, crystalline clarity, quite exciting ….”

– New York Times

Ms. Karasik’s Role

In her role, Ms. Karasik will assist Dean Schriner and Director Veloz advance The Wertheim’s accomplished programs, support students’ success, and strengthen the Wertheim’s industry partnerships, locally and internationally.

Ms. Karasik is eagerly looking forward to her new role, stating, “I am truly honored to serve as the Founding Board Chair. Music has been a transformative force in my life. I am dedicated to working with Dean Schriner, Director Veloz, my colleagues on the board, our community, and our talented faculty and students to ensure that The Wertheim continues to inspire and cultivate the next generation of musicians.”

Gita Karasik