24th Season Dedication

Dr. Joseph A. Marasco, Jr.

January 26, 1932 – July 15, 2024

With endless admiration and gratitude we honor the life of our former Executive Director, Dr. Joe Marasco by dedicating our 24th Season to his memory.

Joe, a dedicated and loving husband and father of four was a true Renaissance man. He was a radiologist, an amateur violinist, a “decent” golfer, gourmet cook, and a man of faith and integrity. He possessed a keen wit and had a natural comfort and ease with others, winning smiles from famous stars to beginning students. Regardless of the group or organization, Joe rose to top leadership positions. Before moving to Amelia Island, over several years he acquired various roles with the Pittsburg Opera. He served as President of the Board, Executive Vice President and Interim Director. His superior work earned Joe the compliment of being the “glue” that held them together.

Joe and his wife, Carrie, purchased an Amelia Island condo in 1983 and moved here permanently in 2000. In 2004 and 2005 Joe joined the boards of ARIAS, the Jacksonville Symphony, and the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival. In 2013 the AICMF board asked him to assume the position of Executive Director. During the next seven years he helped to usher in a new level of artistic excellence and financial stability. Following open heart surgery in 2020 he resigned his position, however, when his health improved he rejoined us as Executive Director Emeritus.

Joe’s passion and enthusiasm for sharing the music he loved helped to ensure the quality and depth of excellence that our audiences as well as those who have performed here with us have known. With nostalgia we remember, with optimism we continue forward. We remain committed and inspired by this one who provided dedication, leadership, and vision.