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Western Illinois University alumnus Wes Anderson, a 2025 Master of Arts in Teaching graduate, returns to the stage as guest conductor for the Knox-Galesburg Symphony concert Saturday, Nov. 22, in Galesburg.
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WIU Alumnus Wes Anderson to Conduct Knox-Galesburg Symphony Nov. 22

October 28, 2025

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University alumnus Wes Anderson, a 2025 graduate of WIU's Master of Arts in Teaching program, will return to the stage as guest conductor for the Knox-Galesburg Symphony concert on Saturday, Nov. 22, in Galesburg.

The opportunity marks a full-circle moment for Anderson, who grew up attending the Symphony as a child and credits it as the first live orchestra experience that inspired his career in music. Several of Anderson's former WIU professors will perform as professional musicians in the ensemble during the concert.

Anderson currently serves as a graduate assistant with the Illinois State University Band Department and as a sergeant and Musical Performance team leader with the 144th Army Band. While there, he has led more than 50 missions and contributed to major civic performances across Illinois.

A summa cum laude graduate of Berklee College of Music in Film Scoring and Composition, Anderson also taught music at ROWVA High School from 2022–25. With his time teaching, he doubled program participation, founded the school's first Tri-M Music Honor Society and was named Teacher of the Year for the district.

His upcoming appearance with the Knox-Galesburg Symphony highlights the impact of community arts and education in shaping creative careers — and showcases how WIU alumni continue to influence the musical landscape across Illinois.

For more information on WIU's School of Music, visit wiu.edu/music.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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