Brevard County is set to host a diverse lineup of cultural and community events throughout October. Residents and visitors can attend a wide range of activities, from free concerts presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band to a major bluegrass performance in Titusville. The month's schedule also includes a new orchestra's debut, a family-friendly gardening festival, and a unique fundraiser for a local animal shelter.
Key Takeaways
- The Melbourne Municipal Band will host multiple free and ticketed concerts, including jazz, rock & roll, and a symphonic performance.
- A new ensemble, the Kreines Wind Orchestra, will hold its debut concert in Titusville to honor the late musician Joseph Kreines.
- Award-winning bluegrass duo Darin and Brooke Aldridge are scheduled for a one-night performance.
- Community events include the "Autumn in Bloom" garden festival and the "Pawsino Royale" fundraiser for the Brevard Humane Society.
Melbourne Municipal Band Announces Full October Schedule
The Melbourne Municipal Band (MMB) has planned a busy month with several performances showcasing its various ensembles. The events cater to different musical tastes, with genres ranging from big band jazz to classic rock and roll.
3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra Presents 'Dealer's Choice'
The MMB's 3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra will kick off the month with a Las Vegas-themed show titled "Dealer's Choice." The free concerts are scheduled for October 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. at the Melbourne Auditorium, located at 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with pre-show entertainment from the New Horizons Band.
The performance will feature music inspired by the iconic sounds of Las Vegas. Conductor Kurt Schulenburg described the event as a "high-rolling night of music inspired by the glitz, glamour and unforgettable sounds of the gambling capital of the world."
"From swinging showstoppers to sultry lounge tunes, this concert is sure to hit the jackpot!" - Kurt Schulenburg, Conductor
The venue will feature a Concert Cafe seating arrangement, allowing audience members space to dance. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from City Bistro. The 3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra is known for its repertoire that spans from swing-era classics to contemporary jazz and Latin grooves.
Rock & Roll Revue Hosts 'Autumn Boogie' Dance
On Friday, October 10, the MMB's Rock & Roll Revue ensemble will perform at the "Autumn Boogie" dance. The event will take place at the Eau Gallie Civic Center, 1551 Highland Ave., starting at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. This is a BYOB event, and tickets are priced at $15.
Directed by Art Martin, the 12-piece group specializes in popular music from the 1950s through the 1970s. The ensemble includes an eight-piece combo and the Swingtimers Vocal Trio, featuring Diana Sageser, Dave Hutson, and Robin Krasny.
'The American Saga' Symphonic Concert
Later in the month, the Melbourne Municipal Band will present "The American Saga," a free concert celebrating American history through music. The performance is scheduled for 3 p.m. on October 19 at the Eau Gallie High School Performing Arts Center, 1400 Commodore Blvd.
This special event will feature guest conductor retired Col. Thomas Palmatier, the former leader and commander of The United States Army Band, "Pershing’s Own." According to MMB conductor Staci Rosbury, the concert will feature music that celebrates the story of the nation. For more details on MMB events, the public can visit mmband.org or call 321-339-7705.
New Kreines Wind Orchestra Debuts with Tribute Concert
A new musical group, the Kreines Wind Orchestra, will hold its inaugural performance this month. The orchestra was formed to honor the musical legacy of Joseph Kreines, a prominent local conductor, author, and pianist who passed away during the summer of 2024.
The debut concert is a tribute to Kreines and is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 12, at Park Avenue Baptist Church, located at 2600 S. Park Avenue in Titusville. The performance is free, and no tickets or reservations are required.
Remembering Joseph Kreines
Joseph Kreines was a significant figure in Brevard County's music education community for 60 years. He was known for his numerous musical transcriptions for concert bands and brass choirs. In 2004, he was inducted into the Roll of Distinction in the Florida Bandmasters Association Hall of Fame.
The orchestra, featuring several dozen local musicians, will be conducted by James Bishop. Orchestra founder David Balcerzak stated the group was formed to repay a debt to their mentor.
"Joe Kreines had a profound effect on the musical lives of hundreds, if not thousands of orchestra and band students over a period of 60 years. I wanted to form this group to pay the enormous debt so many of us feel to the gentle genius of Joseph Kreines. This first concert is for Joe." - David Balcerzak, Orchestra Founder
The program will feature musical arrangements created by Kreines himself. For more information, interested parties can call 321-482-6948.
Award-Winning Bluegrass Duo to Perform in Titusville
Bluegrass and Americana artists Darin and Brooke Aldridge will make a tour stop in Titusville for a single show on Friday, October 10. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. at Shepherd's Hall, 2073 Garden Street. The performance is part of their U.S. tour promoting their 2024 album, "Talk of the Town."
Chart-Topping Success
The duo's latest album, "Talk of the Town," reached the #1 position on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums Chart within three weeks of its release. They have had 12 songs reach the top spot on various bluegrass and gospel charts, and their music has been streamed over eight million times online.
The husband-and-wife duo have received numerous accolades throughout their career, including nominations from the International Bluegrass Music in America (IBMA) and wins in multiple categories. Most recently, their single "A Million Memories" was named the 2025 Bluegrass Song of the Year by Absolutely Gospel Music (AGM). Tickets for the Titusville show are $30 and can be reserved online at JTsBluegrass.com or by calling 321-693-5508.
Community Festivals and Fundraisers
In addition to musical performances, Brevard County's October calendar includes events focused on horticulture and animal welfare.
Autumn in Bloom Garden Festival
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program and UF IFAS Extension of Brevard County will host the "Autumn in Bloom" festival on Saturday, October 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free, family-friendly event will take place at the Brevard Discovery Garden, 3695 Lake Dr., in Cocoa.
The festival will offer a variety of activities for all ages, including:
- A plant sale featuring native and Florida-friendly plants.
- A mobile plant clinic for diagnostic support and care advice.
- Tool sharpening services.
- A children's nature zone with interactive activities.
- A photography contest and live demonstrations.
While admission is free, organizers request that attendees register in advance through Eventbrite.
Brevard Humane Society's Pawsino Royale
The Brevard Humane Society will host its "Pawsino Royale" fundraiser on Friday, October 10, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Carib Brewery on Imperial Blvd. in Cape Canaveral. The event aims to raise funds to support the shelter's mission of caring for homeless animals.
Guests will participate in Vegas-style casino games, including Craps, Roulette, Blackjack, and Texas Hold 'Em. The evening also includes a silent auction, a 50/50 drawing, and prizes. A drawing for a 1993 Honda Del Sol will be held at 8 p.m. during the event.
"Every chip played helps us provide shelter, and care and love until every animal finds their forever home." - Theresa Clifton, Executive Director
Ticket packages are available for $50 (providing $250 in chips) or $75 (providing $400 in chips). All proceeds will directly benefit the Brevard Humane Society. For tickets or sponsorship information, visit brevardhumanesociety.org.