ILLINOIS BANDS E-NEWSLETTER

October 2024

Illinois Marching Band Championships

Over 40 high school bands from across the state of Illinois attended the 53rd Illinois Marching Band Championships on Saturday, October 26. We enjoyed incredible fall weather, fantastic performances by all the participating bands, a special appearance by the Best Buddies Drumlline, and two showcase performances by the Marching Illini. For more information and to see this years results, visit our website.

Gala Flagello Guest Composer Residency

Earlier this month, Gala Flagello joined us as composer in residence with Illinois Bands, culminating in the world premiere of her new work, Love & Nature, with the Hindsley Symphonic Band conducted by Dr. Kim Fleming. While on campus, Flagello met with conductors, music education students, composers, and instrumentalists from across Illinois Bands and the School of Music.


Music for a Lifetime and a Gift to Illinois Bands

Jeffrey Konicek (81 BS 83 MS ECE) graduated from Lockport High School and, like many of his classmates, headed to study at Illinois. After finishing his undergrad, he found himself quite alone since most of his friends left for jobs and other experiences. To make some new connections, Jeff dusted off his saxophone and joined a concert band. He truly enjoyed playing in the Illinois Bands and ended up forming a lot of great friends that he still cherishes. One of those friends was Dr. Harry Begian, who he kept in touch with until Dr. Begians passing in 2010.

Jeff mentioned that his generous donation to the Illinois Loyalty Bands fund was inspired by the amazing memories he made with new friends and the fantastic musical experiences he had. As Jeff puts it, Even if you arent a music major, the music experiences at Illinois can be life-changing.

Gifts to Illinois Bands in any amount enhance the experiences of students in all our ensembles and support every facet of our world-class program. We are grateful for the support of all our donors. For more information on giving to Illinois Bands, click here.

Upcoming Events

For information on giving opportunities and to support the

University of Illinois Bands

visit GIVING or contact

David Allen, allend@illinois.edu

ILLINOIS BANDS

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