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In his childhood, Joseph M. Kreines spent his spare time listening to the radio. An avid listener, he was told at the age of 8 that he had “perfect pitch,” a rare ability that enables an individual to hear music notes with accurate precision. Although starting out with piano playing, Mr. Kreines soon focused his efforts on conducting and earned a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Chicago in 1956. From there, he began conducting for the University of Chicago Symphony and was a member of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, under chorus founder and director, Ms. Margaret Hillis. Equipped with her guidance and encouragement, Mr. Kreines soon went on to establish a prolific career in the music industry.

Relocating to Florida, Mr. Kreines began serving as an associate conductor for the Florida Symphony Orchestra in Orlando in 1961 and the Brevard Symphony in Cocoa, FL, in 1965. He also served as an associate conductor for the Florida Orchestra in Tampa between 1968 and 1974 while studying toward a master’s degree in music. At the conclusion of his career in 2003, he was a conductor for the Treasure Coast Symphony in Fort Pierce, FL, for three years.

Mr. Kreines has also been a frequent consultant in the field, having further contributed his wealth of knowledge and expertise to many written and creative works. The author of “Music for Concert Band,” an annotated guide to band literature, he is also a composer of the American Song-Set and a transcriber of works for band, orchestra and brass choir. Likewise, he has been a musical director for several opera and musical theatre productions and has been an instrumental music clinician and guest conductor for approximately 300 bands, orchestras and choruses. Through his collaborations with various individuals, Mr. Kreines has enjoyed the opportunity to work with notable conductors, composers and musicians.

As a testament to his talent and success in the industry, Mr. Kreines has earned several plaques for his accomplishments as a conductor for ensembles across Florida and was inducted into the Florida Bandmaster Association Hall of Fame.

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