Bands
UIUC has a remarkable record in bands. All four of its directors have been presidents of the American Bandmaster’s Association, and that’s just for starters. In 1893 the UI University Band played at the World’s Columbian Exposition, during W.W.I. it entertained troops, and in 1930 it hosted John Philip Sousa, who called A.A. Harding’s ensemble “The World’s Greatest College Band” and donated his library to the school. Mark Hindsley and Harry Begian further developed this excellent program, and now, under James Keene, UIUC’s is the world’s largest college band program. The Symphonic Band and Wind Symphony have performed for every major music conference in the country, and many in Britain. The Marching Illini, famed for its Block I formation, provides spectacular entertainment and precision. Whatever your interest, there’s a group for you, when you add in the two Symphonic Bands, three concert Bands, British Brass Band, Basketball Band, Orange and Blues, and Clarinet Choir. And if you can’t get the beat out of your system, come back and join the Summer Band or Alumni Band!

For more information visit the University of Illinois Bands web site.