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Gita Karasik Appointed Founding Board Chair, FIU Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music & Performing Artshdeharo2024-10-03T09:57:35-04:00
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
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.
“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
“She produced a big, beautiful tone, and her fingers were beautifully articulate … a natural affinity for the piano.”
– 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.”