University Bands

54th Annual Showcase of Bands Weekend - February 19-20, 2027

 

The Showcase of Bands at Western Illinois University gives talented high school musicians the opportunity to participate and learn from nationally recognized wind band conductors, as well as WIU’s own applied and conducting faculty. Band directors are encouraged to attend and observe sessions under the direction of our guest conductors and the WIU School of Music faculty. Each year, WIU Bands invites three high school ensembles to participate. Additionally, local high school directors are given the opportunity to nominate students for the Honor Band, which allows students to work with a guest conductor and perform at the conclusion of the weekend.

 

2027 Honor Band Conductor


conductor

 

Dr. Nikk Plato

 

Director of Bands

 

Northern Kentucky University

 

2027 Showcase Bands Clinician


conductor

 

Dr. Nicholas E. Williams

 

Director of Bands

 

University of Georgia

 

2027 Composer in Residence


conductor

 

Optional Pending Demand

 


2027 SHOWCASE BANDS

liberty

Libertyville High School


Wind Ensemble

Adam Gohr

Director of Bands
downer

 

Downers Grove South High School


Wind Ensemble

Aaron Kennedy

Director of Bands
limestone

 

Limestone Community High School


Wind Ensemble

Justin Bainter

Director of Bands

Concert Schedules - Friday, Feb. 19 & Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027

 

54th Annual WIU Showcase of Bands

 

  • Friday, Feb. 19, 7:30pm - WIU Wind Ensemble Concert
  • Saturday, Feb. 20, 1:00pm - Showcase Bands Concert
  • Saturday, Feb. 20, 4:00pm - Honor Band & WIU Concert-Band Concert

 

 

All performances will be live-streamed on the School of Music's YouTube channel or Facebook page.
2027 Honor Band Nomination Form (opens late fall 2027)

Future Showcase Participants

 

February 25-26, 2028
Showcase Bands Clinicians
Lockport Township High School Dr. Mary Schneider, Eastern Michigan University
Southeast Polk High School Dr. Jim Daughters, Honor Band
Warren Township High School  
February 23-24, 2029
Showcase Bands Clinicians
Accepting Applications TBD, Showcase Bands
Accepting Applications TBD, Honor Band
Accepting Applications