The District 146 Band Program has a long-standing tradition of excellence that goes beyond the notes and rhythms written on a page of music. Through music, students are learning life-long skills and values that are beneficial in many areas of life. Students’ learn that through their dedication and persistence, a high level of musical understanding and performance can be achieved. This self-accomplishment is a tremendous confidence builder and when it is done as a group, it creates great camaraderie throughout the whole organization.
The band students participate annually in the Illinois Music Educators Association District Band Festival, the Illinois Grade School Music Association Solo and Ensemble Contest and the Illinois Grade School Music Association Organization Band Contest, which they have received consecutive Division I ratings over the past three decades. The Symphonic Band participated in the International Midwest Clinic in 2008 as a demonstration band for band directors all over the world. In 2014, the Symphonic Band was named the Grand Champion at the State of Illinois Band Invitational held at Illinois State University. In addition, the Symphonic Band was also named the Honor Band in 1990 and 2014 at the prestigious Illinois SuperState Band Festival held at the University of Illinois.
The District 146 Band Program also supports educational music tours and the importance of students’ continuing their musical development lifelong. Students have toured and performed in the following locations: Toronto, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Chicago, Nashville, White Sox Park, Orlando, Cleveland, and Minnesota. In addition, the students have participated in clinics with music professors from the University of Michigan, Indiana University, University of Illinois, Northwestern University, Purdue University, St. Olaf College, Oberlin College, University of Minnesota, and Vanderbilt University.
The band students participate annually in the Illinois Music Educators Association District Band Festival, the Illinois Grade School Music Association Solo and Ensemble Contest and the Illinois Grade School Music Association Organization Band Contest, which they have received consecutive Division I ratings over the past three decades. The Symphonic Band participated in the International Midwest Clinic in 2008 as a demonstration band for band directors all over the world. In 2014, the Symphonic Band was named the Grand Champion at the State of Illinois Band Invitational held at Illinois State University. In addition, the Symphonic Band was also named the Honor Band in 1990 and 2014 at the prestigious Illinois SuperState Band Festival held at the University of Illinois.
The District 146 Band Program also supports educational music tours and the importance of students’ continuing their musical development lifelong. Students have toured and performed in the following locations: Toronto, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Chicago, Nashville, White Sox Park, Orlando, Cleveland, and Minnesota. In addition, the students have participated in clinics with music professors from the University of Michigan, Indiana University, University of Illinois, Northwestern University, Purdue University, St. Olaf College, Oberlin College, University of Minnesota, and Vanderbilt University.