University of Illinois Bands Fall Newsletter 2026

2

Letter from the Director of Bands

7

Band Events & Awards

11 MI Awards & Calendar

3

Illinois Bands Faculty & Staff

8

12 Advancement Stories

4

Graduate Teaching Assistants

Letter from the Director of the Marching Illini

5

Concert Band Highlights

9

Homecoming

6

Band Events & Concert Calendar

10 Athletic Bands Highlights

13 Donors

A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF BANDS, KEVIN GERALDI Dear Alumni and Friends of the Illinois Bands, Greetings from historic Harding Band Building!

As we begin Year 158, I am proud to share an update on the extraordinary accomplishments of Illinois Bands during the 2025–2026 academic year. Throughout this newsletter, you’ll learn about our remarkable performances, national recognition, meaningful student experiences, and continued progress. Every Illinois Bands ensemble continues to honor our traditions while embracing artistic innovation.

The Marching Illini once again served as exceptional ambassadors for the university. From exciting performances in Gies Memorial Stadium to appearances throughout the state and region, the band had an incredible year.

Highlights included a memorable Music City Bowl in Nashville and a performance in the Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This fall, the Marching Illini will perform in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City! This is the highest honor for a collegiate marching band, and we are proud to represent the university and generations of Illinois Bands alumni in such a prominent way! In addition, our athletic bands maintained an exciting and visible presence throughout the year at basketball, volleyball, and postseason tournaments. The run to the Final Four in Indianapolis was unforgettable!

Our concert ensembles enjoyed a tremendous year of artistic achievement. All five of our concert ensembles continued to provide meaningful musical experiences for hundreds of students from all disciplines across campus. The Illinois Wind Symphony continues to set the standard for what a university band can accomplish artistically. The ensemble performed at the 2026 American Bandmasters Association Convention, and has been invited to perform at the 2027 national convention of the College Band Directors National Association. Few ensembles achieve these milestones in back-to-back years! We are proud to represent our university and build upon our long legacy of national prominence.

Illinois Bands also continues to expand opportunities for audiences and students through festivals, clinics, and educational events.

Preparations are already underway for another outstanding year as we strengthen our connections with alumni, directors, and students throughout Illinois and reinforce the University of Illinois’ historic leadership role in music education.

Most importantly, our students inspire us daily through their commitment, musicianship, creativity, and enthusiasm. Their achievements are enhanced by the continued support of alumni, donors, parents, and friends like you. Your generosity sustains scholarships, commissions, travel opportunities, outreach programs, and the many educational opportunities that define the Illinois Bands experience.

Thank you for being an important part of the Illinois Bands family. We hope you will stay connected with us through our websites and social media, including bands.illinois.edu and marchingillini.com. We look forward to welcoming you back to campus for concerts, game days, and events throughout the coming year.

GO ILLINI! Sincerely,

Kevin M. Geraldi Director of Bands

If you want to be in the know of the latest news about the Illinois Bands, scan the QR code to sign up for our University of Illinois Bands e-newsletter!

FACULTY & STAFF

DR. KEVIN M. GERALDI director of bands As director of bands, Kevin conducts the Wind Symphony, leads the graduate wind conducting program, teaches courses in wind literature and conducting, and guides all aspects of the Bands program at the University of Illinois.

AARON KAVELMAN percussion instructor properties manager Aaron serves as instructor of the Marching Illini Drumline, assists with percussion for all bands, and manages the Illinois Bands Properties room, inventory, and staff.

PROFESSOR BARRY L. HOUSER associate director of bands

REID LASLEY mi field assistant

Barry directs all aspects of the Athletic Bands program and leads the famed Marching Illini.

In addition, he serves as conducting area head for the School of Music, conducts the Wind Orchestra, and teaches courses in conducting.

Reid has been part of the Illinois Bands program for eight years, and currently serves as field assistant with Marching Illini. Reid is currently ABD in trombone performance and works in the Grainger College of Engineering in engagement and alumni relations.

DR. KIMBERLY FLEMING assistant director of bands

KAITLYN PUGH mi guard instructor

Kim conducts the Hindsley Symphonic Band and teaches courses in instrumental conducting and rehearsal methods.

Kaitlyn, a former Marching Illini Color Guard captain, is in her third year as MI guard instructor. She teaches full time at Danville High School.

DR. HANNAH RUDY assistant director of athletic bands

JOY McCLAUGHERTY business admin associate

Hannah assists with all aspects of the Athletic Bands and directs volleyball and basketball bands. In addition, she conducts the University Band and teaches courses in instrumental conducting and marching band techniques.

Joy manages the Illinois Bands Office and coordinates Bands student staffing. She also handles all logistics for events including the SuperState Concert Band Festival and Band Conductors Symposium.

3

GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS BEAU BUJOL new orleans, louisiana dma conducting

Beau earned his master of music degree in band conducting from Baylor University served as an associate director of bands at John Paul Stevens High School (Northside ISD) in San Antonio, Texas. Beau earned his bachelor of music education degree from Louisiana State University.

JOSEPH HORNE cedar rapids, iowa dma in euphonium performance mi teaching assistant Joseph Horne earned his master of music degree from Kansas State University, where he served as a GTA with athletic bands. He was previously a low brass instructor at West Music in Coralville, Iowa and earned a bachelor of music from the University of Iowa, where he was a baritone section leader of the Hawkeye Marching Band.

KRISTINA LAMARCA bloomington, minnesota major dma conducting Kristina taught for eleven years at the middle and high school levels in Indiana, Texas, and abroad, most recently serving as the director of instrumental music at The American International School of Muscat, Oman. Beyond her musical pursuits, Kristina is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and a devoted technical diver with Global Underwater Explorers.

JACKSON PARKER leitchfield, kentucky dma trombone performance mi teaching assistant Jackson Parker earned his master’s degree in trombone performance at the University of Alabama and his bachelor’s degree in instrumental music education at Western Kentucky University. While attending at Alabama, he served as a teaching assistant and assisted in the daily operations of the University Bands.

PABLO ELIAS-RODRIGUEZ oviedo, florida mm conducting Prior to coming to Illinois, Pablo taught high school band and orchestra in the public schools of Florida for eleven years, most recently for seven years at Bayside High School. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in music education from Florida State University.

KAREN KOPECKI arlington heights, illinois mme mi teaching assistant Karen earned her bachelor of science degree in clinical psychology at the University of Illinois in 2024. She was a member of the Marching Illini tenor saxophone section for three years and played in numerous School of Music ensembles.

MARCOS LOPEZ clovis, new mexico mm in trumpet performance mi teaching assistant Marcos earned his bachelor’s degrees in trumpet performance and music education from Eastern New Mexico University, where he was a member of various ensembles including the Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Brass Choir, Jazz Band, and Trumpet Ensemble. Marcos served for three years as a music and marching section leader for the Greyhound Sound Marching Band.

ALUMNI CONCERT BAND REUNION & CONCERT

SAVE THE DATE: JUNE 5–6, 2027

LIMO SCHISSLER western springs, illinois phd civil engineering mi teaching assistant Limo earned bachelor of science and master of science degrees in civil engineering from the University of Illinois. Limo enjoyed seven years of membership in the Marching Illini, including two seasons as trumpet marching section leader, and performed with a wide variety of ensembles.

4

Join us for a special celebration of the historic Illinois Bands program! We originally hoped to hold this event in 2026 but had to postpone it. It’ll be even better in 2027!

Rehearse and perform with current and former Illinois Bands directors, reconnect with old friends, bandmates, and fellow performers, and take part in a spectacular Alumni Band Concert. More information coming soon!

CONCERT BAND HIGHLIGHTS 2025–2026

This was an incredible year for our concert bands. The highlight was the acclaimed Illinois Wind Symphony performance in Chicago at the 91st annual convention of the American Bandmasters Association.

The concert featured an exciting and varied program of works conducted

by Kevin Geraldi, Barry Houser, and guest conductors including emeritus faculty Stephen and Beth Peterson. The memorable experience for our students included an overnight stay at the Swissôtel Chicago, a performance at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, a great dinner at Giordano’s Pizzeria, and much more! We are very appreciative to all our donors to the Illinois Bands Loyalty Fund, which funded the trip, and a leading gift from James and Candace Frame.

We hosted many acclaimed composers and soloists as we continue leading the way through our programming. Composers visiting on campus or virtually were Gao Hong, Matthew Felbein, Cooper Wood, Ty Bloomfield, Karalyn Schubring, Joel Puckett, Zhou Tian, Griffin Candey, Eli Fieldsteel, and Ben Horne. Featured soloists included faculty members Josh Graham (percussion), Scott MacLeod (voice), James Pugh (trombone), Nicki

Roman (saxophone), and a graduate student trombone trio. We were also happy to share the stage with the fantastic bands from Washington Community and Buffalo Grove high schools. We hope you’ll attend a concert this year in person or by watching over our livestream.

Illinois Bands presented consortium premieres of six new pieces by a diverse range of composers with performances by the Wind Symphony, Wind Orchestra, Hindsley Symphonic Band, and Summer Band. We’re thrilled that hundreds of students were able to participate in the creation of these works. You can read more about our commissioning efforts below.

Finally, the Illinois Wind Symphony’s most recent studio album Liminal Spaces was released over the summer! You can find our recording of works by Christopher Cerrone, Gala Flagello, Patrick Harlin, and Hilary Purrington on all streaming services now!

Support for all these initiatives, and many more, was provided by the Illinois Bands Loyalty Fund, which provides substantial funding for all aspects of the Illinois Bands program.

ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY TO PERFORM AT NATIONAL CONVENTION

The Illinois Wind Symphony was selected out of approximately thirty-five applicants to perform at the 2027 convention of the College Band Directors National Association, held at the University of Maryland, for a featured evening performance on February 24, 2027. This achievement is the highest honor for a university band and follows similar recent invitations in 2019 and 2015. We are honored to perform for this gathering of America’s leading band conductors and our community of supporters as representatives of our program and our university. The Wind Symphony will embark on a five-day tour, playing school performances en route to College Park, Maryland.

If you would like to support our tour and this performance, please consider giving to the Illinois Bands Loyalty Fund. More information will come soon, but for now SAVE THE DATE!

5

2026–2027 CONCERT BAND CALENDAR

FGH – FOELLINGER GREAT HALL SRH – SMITH RECITAL HALL

SEPTEMBER 23 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY FGH 7:30PM OCTOBER 7 WIND SYMPHONY CHAMBER WINDS SRH 9

7:30PM

HINDSLEY SYMPHONIC BAND AND WIND ORCHESTRA FGH 7:30PM

29 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY AND COMBINED UNIVERSITY CHOIRS FGH 7:30PM NOVEMBER 11 HINDSLEY SYMPHONIC BAND AND WIND ORCHESTRA FGH 7:30PM 13 UNIVERSITY BAND AND CAMPUS BAND FGH 3:00PM DECEMBER 2 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY FGH 7:30PM FEBRUARY 17 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY FGH 7:30PM 24 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY AT THE CBDNA NATIONAL CONFERENCE University of Maryland

ILLINOIS BAND CONDUCTING SYMPOSIUM In February, conductors from Illinois and around the country joined us on campus for the annual Illinois Band Conductors Symposium.

Participants engaged in lectures, discussions, and conducting sessions with the Illinois Wind Symphony and Wind Orchestra, receiving coaching from Director of Bands Kevin Geraldi and guest clinician Michael Haithcock, director of bands emeritus at the University of Michigan.

The 2027 Illinois Band Conductors Symposium will be held February 12–13 and will feature Rodney Dorsey as guest clinician. Dr. Dorsey is professor of music at the Florida State University College of Music, where he conducts the FSU Wind Orchestra and leads the graduate wind conducting program.

Registration will open on Tuesday, December 1, 2026. Additional information is available on the Illinois Band Conductors Symposium website, bands.illinois.edu/conducting-symposium.

ILLINOIS SUPERSTATE CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL On May 8–9, we welcomed middle and high school concert bands from across Illinois for the annual Illinois SuperState Concert Band Festival.

MARCH 4 HINDSLEY SYMPHONIC BAND AND WIND ORCHESTRA FGH 7:30PM 25 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY WITH RENEÉ ELISE GOLDSBERRY FGH 7:30PM

6

Each ensemble selected to participate was honored with a performance in Foellinger APRIL 23 HINDSLEY SYMPHONIC BAND Great Hall at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. We were also pleased to AND WIND ORCHESTRA welcome distinguished adjudicators Caroline Beatty, Andrea Brown, Tom Caneva, FGH 7:30PM William Lake, John Locke, Mary Schneider, Scott Tobias, and Eric Wilson, whose expertise 28 ILLINOIS WIND SYMPHONY provided invaluable feedback to participating ensembles.

FGH 7:30PM The 2027 Illinois SuperState Concert Band Festival will be held May 7–8. Middle School/ MAY Junior High and High School Class 1A bands will perform on Friday, with High School 1 CAMPUS BAND AND UNIVERSITY BAND Class 2A and 3A bands taking the stage on Saturday. This year’s on-site evaluators will FGH 7:30PM include Scott Boerma, Shelby Chipman, Trish Cornett, Gary Hill, Bruce Moss, Lauren 7–8 ILLINOIS SUPERSTATE Reynolds, Elizabeth Peterson, and Stephen Peterson.

CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL FGH ALL DAY Applications will open on Tuesday, December 1, 2026. Additional information, including this year’s recording evaluators, is available on the Illinois Bands website.

ILLINOIS SUMMER BAND AWARDS 2026 BAND PRESENTS 114TH YEAR OF TWILIGHT CONCERTS A.A HARDING AWARD

During summer 2026, nearly 160 current students, alumni, and friends of Illinois Bands came together to rehearse and perform at our two annual Twilight Concerts on June 25 and July 23. We were especially honored to share the June concert with the US Navy Band Great Lakes, directed by Lt. David A. Harbuziuk. Earlier that day, members of the Navy visited the Sousa Archives to document John Philip Sousa’s involvement with the Great Lakes Navy Band during World War I, conduct interviews, play historic instruments, and explore the Center’s collections. That evening, the Navy Band and Illinois Summer Band performed separately before joining together for a stirring set of patriotic favorites to close the concert in front of a record audience. The long tradition of Summer Band concerts continues to bring our entire community together, and we are grateful for this collaboration between the US Navy, the Sousa Archives, and Illinois Bands.

ILLINOIS BANDS LEADS THE WAY IN COMMISSIONING NEW WORKS

Living up to A. A. Harding’s mantra, “always something new,” Illinois Bands has long been committed to the creation and performance of new works for band and chamber winds. We have supported the creation of over thirty-five compositions since 2022, which have been performed by concert ensembles across our program. A complete list of those pieces can be found at https:// www.bands.illinois.edu/commissioning.

If you would like to support our efforts in building the next generation of great composers and wind repertoire, please consider contributing to the James F. Keene Bands Commission Fund.

We are happy to announce a partnership with Alice Keene to commission a work in honor of her husband, our fifth director of bands, James F. Keene. Renowned composer Scott Boerma has agreed to compose a piece in Prof. Keene’s memory. We encourage alumni from the Keene era and others to support this project. For more information or to contribute to this project, visit bands.illinois. edu/keeneboerma-commission.

GUY M. DUKER SYMPHONIC BAND AWARD

ANDREW GAFFEY, DMA ’26 STEVEN CLAWSON, BME ’28 ANA HUERTA FERNÁNDEZ, DMA ’27 JACKSON PARKER, DMA ’27

MARK HINDSLEY AWARD

SHERIDAN MACKEY, MM ’26 JAQUAN WILEY, MM ’26 MATT WILLIAMSON, DMA ’27

EDMUND C. WILLIAMS EXCELLENCE AWARD

JOSEPH GOLDSTEIN, DMA ’26 JACK GOVERN, MM ’26 CHANDLER CLERIC, MM ’26

SALLY EMRICH PIERCE AND C. DAVID PIERCE SCHOLARSHIP

WILLIAM F. LUDWIG ILLINOIS BANDS AWARD FOR PERCUSSIONISTS

CHARLIE KNETL, BME ’26

MILES NIEHAUS, MM ’27

DANSR/VANDOREN SINGLE REED AWARD

THOMAS J. HARRIS AWARD

LILY KNAACK, BM ’28 LIA PAPPAS, BM ’26

ALEX MONDRAGON, DMA ’26

7

MARCHING ILLINI 2026–27 HIGHLIGHTS & HOMECOMING DEAR FELLOW ILLINOIS BANDS ALUMNI, FANS, FRIENDS, AND FAMILLY, Greetings from the iconic and historic Harding Band Building!

As I start my 16th year at the University of Illinois urbana-Champaign, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride for the opportunity to continue serving as director of the Marching Illini and Fighting Illini Athletic Bands, associate director of Bands, and clinical full professor in the School of Music. It remains one of the greatest honors of my life to work alongside an extraordinary team of colleagues, remarkable students, dedicated staff, and loyal alumni who continue to advance the proud legacy of the Illinois Bands program.

This fall marks 158 years of the University of Illinois Bands and welcomes the 158th edition of the Marching Illini (#Band158).

Our program has never been stronger. Interest in joining the Marching Illini continues to reach new heights, with nearly 1,000 prospective students expressing interest and more than 700 completing the audition process. Each year, selecting our next class becomes more challenging because of the incredible talent, character, and passion demonstrated by these outstanding young musicians, dancers, and performers. Thanks to exceptional retention and another outstanding incoming class, the future of the Marching Illini has never been brighter. The past year has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Together, the Marching Illini and Fighting Illini Athletic Bands have proudly represented the University of Illinois on some of the nation’s biggest stages. We celebrated back-to-back bowl victories over SEC opponents in football, traveled throughout the country in support of both our men’s and women’s basketball programs during the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments, and experienced a truly unforgettable Final Four appearance alongside Fighting Illini Basketball.

This spring also brought one of the most memorable experiences in our program’s history as more than 360 members of the

8

Marching Illini traveled to Ireland for our ninth appearance in Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Festival and Parade. Once again, our students served as extraordinary ambassadors for the University of Illinois, earning praise everywhere they performed through their musicianship, professionalism, enthusiasm, and pride.

Whether performing on Memorial Stadium’s turf, in basketball arenas across America, or marching through the streets of Dublin, these remarkable students continue to represent each and every one of you with distinction. They embody the values that have defined Illinois Bands for generations, and I could not be more proud of the way they carry our traditions forward in a truly firstclass manner.

As we begin another exciting season with an unwavering Attitude of Gratitude and an increased emphasis on Remarkable Respect, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to YOU—our incredible alumni and friends—for your continued generosity and support.

During March Forth 2026, you once again shattered every previous record, raising an astounding $389,688 through the generosity of 838 donors. Oskee WOW WOW! Your support is already making a meaningful impact by helping us: • • • • • • • • •

Continue replacing our trumpet inventory with Yamaha Silver Xeno Trumpets Begin the process of purchasing a new fleet of sousaphones as our current instruments surpass fifteen years of service Purchase new sousaphone travel cases Offset student travel costs for Ireland and future performances Prepare for our appearance in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Increase scholarship opportunities Upgrade technology and performance attire Maintain our new Marching Illini van Enhance our rehearsal and performance facilities

Most importantly, your generosity directly supports what matters most—our students. Together, you are helping provide a truly world-class experience for world-class young people.

I’m also pleased to share that our Marching Illini Loyalty Scholarship Fund continues to grow as we work toward our goal of $1,000,000. This initiative recognizes graduating seniors with a $500 scholarship honoring their unwavering dedication

and loyalty to the Marching Illini throughout their collegiate experience.

Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be another unforgettable year for Illinois Bands. Highlights include: •

• • • • •

Seven exciting home football games in Gies Memorial Stadium, featuring the debut of the spectacular 17,000-square-foot video board, expanded ribbon boards, upgraded sound throughout the stadium, and many other fan enhancements.

Expanded outreach performances throughout northern and southern Illinois as we continue connecting with students and communities across our great state.

Hosting the Illinois Marching Band Championships (IMBC) October 17, 2026.

Our signature Marching Illini Live in Concert at the State Farm Center (Sunday, date to be announced)—an event you won’t want to miss.

What we hope is another exciting postseason football run.

After all, with a quarterback named Houser, how can we not be optimistic? GO ILLINI! Our return—and my final appearance in this event—to New York City for the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, where the Marching Illini will proudly represent Illinois as one of only ten marching bands selected from hundreds of applicants worldwide.

And of course...

HOMECOMING 2026!

For more information on Homecoming 2026, please visit: https://www.bands.illinois.edu/homecoming

Mark your calendars for October 2–3 as we welcome you home under the theme: ONCE AN ILLINI, ALWAYS AN ILLINI This year’s celebration will be especially meaningful as we honor the remarkable legacy of Gary E. Smith. The 2026 season marks Gary’s 50th anniversary with the Marching Illini, and during halftime of the Illinois vs. Purdue game, we will celebrate his extraordinary impact with a special production entitled “The Greatest Hits of Gary Smith,” featuring memorable moments inspired by some of his most beloved halftime productions.

I sincerely hope you’ll join us on the field, reconnect with lifelong friends, celebrate our shared traditions, and help us honor one of the most influential leaders in the history of Illinois Bands.

Additional Homecoming information can be found throughout this newsletter.

Before I close, I have one more favor to ask.

Please consider voting for the Marching Illini in USA Today’s 10 Best College Marching Bands Readers’ Choice Awards. Voting takes place daily, and your support helps showcase our incredible students and program on a national stage. https://www.usatoday.com/sports/readers-choice-awards/ university-of-illinois-marching-illini/ Whether we see you at Homecoming, in Gies Memorial Stadium, on the road, or online, thank you for remaining such an important part of the Illinois Bands family. Your encouragement, generosity, and loyalty continue to inspire our students every single day.

The future of Illinois Bands has never been brighter, and that’s because of you.

Take care, stay well, and as always... GO ILLINI! With True Illini Spirit... OSKEE WOW WOW! Barry L. Houser Director of the Marching Illini Associate Director of Bands Clinical Full Professor of Music

HOMECOMING 2026 SCHEDULE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2

12:30 PM Alumni Band Registration | Harding Band Building 3:00 PM

Alumni Band Welcome and Rehearsal, registration closes | Harding Band Building

4:30 PM

Break

5:30 PM

Parade (time to be confirmed)

7:00 PM

Illinois Bands Alumni Reception | I-Hotel

10:00 PM Friday Night Hype | Alma Mater, corner of Wright and Green SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 TBA

Registration opens at Memorial Stadium

TBA

FEET ON THE FIELD—Alumni Band Rehearsal (mandatory for those marching on the field) | Memorial Stadium

TBA

Rehearsal concludes with seating assignments and announcements, tent

TBA

Lunch served | Harding Band Building

TBA

March out to Stadium from the Armory

TBA

Alumni Band Pregame Show Performance

TBA

Illinois vs Purdue Kickoff

HALFTIME PERFORMANCE POST-GAME MARCH-OUT

9

ATHLETIC BANDS REVIEW The 2025–2026 school year proved to be an exciting one for Fighting Illini Athletic Bands!

The 2025–2026 school year was an exciting one for Illinois Athletic Bands! The Marching Illini kicked off the season with performances to welcome everyone to campus and start the new year. From Sights and Sounds, New Student Convocation, and Quad Day, the MI performed three times before classes even began!

The football season started out early with a Friday game against Western Illinois, and on the same weekend as the home opener, the Marching Illini performed for an enthusiastic audience in the Champaign–Urbana Labor Day Parade.

November 1, and celebrated our graduating members at the final snowy home game of the season on November 29. The Marching Illini concluded the season with a trip to Nashville, Tennessee, for the Music City Bowl. The MI performed Battle of the Bands on Broadway, pep rallies on game day, and cheered the Illini to victory over the Tennessee Volunteers on December 30, 2025!

The Volleyball Band supported our team throughout the fall semester and looks forward to the newly created Big Ten Volleyball Tournament beginning in Fall 2026. An overwhelming turnout of talented musicians auditioned for Hoops Band, and we had full bands of approximately seventy performers for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams.

A memorable Homecoming week was highlighted by REO Speedwagon serving as parade marshals for the Homecoming Parade, then joining the Marching Illini for a historic reunion performance during halftime on Saturday, September 27. Alumni, family, and friends had another opportunity to see the Marching Illini in Concert at the end of Homecoming Weekend on September 28.

As the Spring semester began, Hoops Band performed at home basketball games and accompanied the teams to their Big Ten Tournaments in Indianapolis, Indiana. Basketball tournaments continued with March Madness, as the bands traveled to Nashville, Tennessee for the Women’s NCAA Tournament, and the historic Men’s NCAA run, which took the band to Greenville, South Carolina, Houston, Texas, and Indianapolis, Indiana for the Final Four. We’re proud to support our Fighting Illini and grateful for our positive relationship with the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics.

For the Ohio State game on October 11, the Marching Illini performed an exciting halftime show that featured Mariachi de Joliet. A brief road trip took MI to St. Louis for an exhibition performance at the Bands of America Super Regional. After hosting IMBC on October 25, we were joined by hundreds of family members for Dad’s Day on

As basketball season came to a close, the preparations for Marching Illini Band #158 and the next school year were already underway. We look forward to seeing you at our 2026–2027 Fighting Illini Athletic Band performances! For more information, visit https://www. marchingillini.com/calendar-events/event-calendar.

IMBC RECAP

MI IN IRELAND

We welcomed forty-one bands to Gies Memorial Stadium on October 25, 2025. The Marching Illini drumline and sousaphones opened the exhibition performances, followed by the Marching Illini performing their Wicked show celebrating the release of the iconic film. In addition to the MI, the King Cobras All-Ability Drumline, under the direction of MI alum Dale Hallerberg, performed an upbeat and exciting show for the crowd.

Congratulations to the Governor’s Grand Champion Award recipients: Morton High School for class 1A–3A and Normal High School for class 4A–6A. We are excited to host thirty-nine high school bands on October 17, 2026, for the 55th Illinois Marching Band Championships! The registered bands are divided into six classifications based on IHSA school enrollment. IMBC provides participating marching bands with feedback from the nation’s finest adjudicators, relevant and educational evaluation rubrics, and the thrill of performing in historic Gies Memorial Stadium! For more information and the list of participating bands, please visit: https://www.bands.illinois.edu/ imbc-confirmed-participants.

10

In March 2026, the Marching Illini traveled to Ireland for a memorable international tour that showcased the ensemble as musical ambassadors of the University of Illinois. Over 360 student musicians performed in St. Patrick’s Festival events, including appearances in Kilkenny and the National St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin on March 17. The tour continued the band’s longstanding relationship with Ireland dating back to its first invitation in 1992, offering audiences across the country the signature sound, precision, and spirit of the Marching Illini while providing students a transformative performance and cultural experience.

MARCHING ILLINI AWARDS 2026 If you are interested in contributing to Marching Illini endowments, contact Jon Salvani by phone (217) 300-2869 or email jsalvani@illinois.edu

MI LOYALTY SCHOLARSHIPS

SHAFFER BAUER

NICK EVANOFF

COLIN BERTAND REAGAN BLACK

HILLARY FLEMING

CHARLIE KNETL

LILY LAPAN

COLIN OVANDO

TIFFANY SAXINGER

JANE FORNES

GABRIEL LEBOWA

KYLE BOONE

ANNE GRIFFIN

BRODIE MENEELY

MOLLY SHEAHAN PAIGE WHEELER

GARY E. SMITH TWIRLER EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP

LUKE BROWN

LEO KAEMPFE

KATELIN DOUGHTY

SAM MURRAY

ELLIE GARST

ALUMNI DRUMLINE SCHOLARSHIP

WILSON TROMBONE SCHOLARSHIP

COLLIN VANDERKARR

GEORGE HUBER

MI TROMBONE SCHOLARSHIP

PRICKET ENGINEERING SCHOLARSHIP

JACKSON COLE

JOSEPH HAMMEL, GEORGE HUBER

MI MELLOPHONE SCHOLARSHIP

MI BARITONE SCHOLARSHIP

BEE KEENE

ANDREW MYERS

KENDALL O’KEEFE

SAM WLEKLINSKI

DAVID WUERTZER

CORALYN JOHNSON

BRIGHID ZELKO

THOMAS DEMOUY

SOPHIE FREEMAN

SAVANNAH SMITH

MI PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE 2026–2027 AUGUST 23 QUAD DAY FOELLINGER AUDITORIUM STEPS

OCTOBER continued 17 ILLINOIS MARCHING BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS 12:00 PM MEMORIAL STADIUM ALL DAY 24 ILLINOIS VS OREGON SEPTEMBER GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM TBD 3 ILLINOIS VS UAB MILITARY APPRECIATION GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM 8:00PM 12 ILLINOIS VS DUKE NOVEMBER GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM 2:30PM 6 ILLINOIS VS NEBRASKA HALL OF FAME, FAMILLY DAY GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM 7:00 PM 19 ILLINOIS VS SOUTHERN ILLINOIS DAD’S DAY GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM 1:00PM 21 ILLINOIS VS IOWA GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM TBD OCTOBER SENIOR DAY 2 HOMECOMING PARADE 26 100TH MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE CAMPUS 6:00PM NEW YORK CITY TBD 3 ILLINOIS VS. PURDUE 4

GIES MEMORIAL STADIUM HOMECOMING MARCHING ILLINI IN CONCERT STATE FARM CENTER

TBD

3:00PM

DECEMBER 5 B1G CHAMPIONSHIP LUCAS OIL STADIUM, INDIANA TBD

11

YOUR GIFT MATTERS For over a century and a half, the University of Illinois Bands have served as a cornerstone of our campus and community. Philanthropic support plays an essential role in elevating the opportunities we offer to our dedicated students, faculty, and staff. Thanks to generous donors, we continue to expand our resources through new instruments, scholarships, facility enhancements, and additional initiatives.

SUPPORT ILLINOIS BANDS

We hope you’ll stay connected with us—whether by returning for Homecoming, engaging with our performances, or continuing your philanthropic involvement throughout the years. Your participation and support help sustain the excellence and momentum of our program.

Your contribution—at any level—helps preserve the strength and quality of our band program. If you have questions about how your donation can create meaningful impact, I would be happy to connect. Thank you for your continued commitment to Illinois Bands.

JON SALVANI Associate Dean for Advancement College of Fine & Applied Arts—Office of Advancement (217) 300-2869, jsalvani@illinois.edu

MARCH FORTH! DAY OF GIVING SUCCESS

THANK YOU, DAVID ALLEN! Illinois Bands extends congratulations to David Allen on his recent retirement. He served as director of advancement for the School of Music, leading fundraising, major gift, and alumni relations initiatives, and played a key role in many Illinois Bands advancement accomplishments, including the Filler Marching Illini Instructional Tower and March Forth, facilitating many significant planned gifts, and strengthening alumni engagement.

We are deeply grateful for David Allen’s impact on Illinois Bands and wish him the very best in his retirement!

GRATITUDE FOR OUR EXPANDING LOYALTY SOCIETY The Illinois Bands Loyalty Society recognizes and celebrates the generous donors who contribute $500 (or $45/ month!) or more each year in support of Illinois Bands. This year, we are proud to recognize 149 Loyalty Society members— thank you for helping sustain and elevate our program.

Now in its eighth year, March Forth has reached an extraordinary milestone, raising more than $389,000! This achievement reflects the incredible generosity of our alumni, parents, friends, and supporters, whose gifts continue to create meaningful opportunities for our students.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to March Forth over the years, and especially to those who have provided challenge gifts that inspire others to give. If you are interested in becoming a challenge donor for March Forth 2027, we would love to hear from you.

Together, we have built more than a fundraiser—we have created a tradition of generosity that will strengthen our program for years to come.

We are incredibly grateful!

Watch for our March Forth 2027 information soon!

12

We invite you to consider supporting one or more of our primary funds: the Illinois Bands Loyalty Annual Fund, which strengthens all areas of Illinois Bands—from the Marching Illini to our concert ensembles including the Illinois Wind Symphony, Wind Orchestra, Hindsley Symphonic Band, Campus Band, University Band, and Summer Band; and the Marching Illini Fund, which provides essential operational support for the Marching Illini. Additional giving opportunities are also available, each helping us to create world-class student experience across Illinois Bands. Any gifts to these funds totaling $500 or more qualifies you for Loyalty Society membership.

For a full list of giving options, please visit https://www.bands.illinois.edu/giving.

BEHIND EVERY PERFORMANCE

DONATIONS

Amy & Eric Tamura Luly Yang

$2,499-$1,000 William Alberth & Patricia Robb JULY 1, 2025–JUNE 30, 2026 Larry Ashley Christine & Robert Ayers Elizabeth & Paul Bargren Lisa-Ann & Robert Barnes Note: Donors who have Allen & Holly Barr generously given $500 Stephen & Marjorie Bernhardt or more between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026 Brenda Brak & Dale Hallerberg represent the members Carl “Chip” & Sarah Buerger Behind every memorable of our Illinois Band David & Heather Chichester Loyalty Society and will performance by Illinois Michelle Corlew be listed on the Donor Bands is an incredible Board in the Harding band John & Mary Dimit building. Contact Jon Salvani for more information at Cathy & Gerald Ditto community of alumni, Jim Dixon & Kathie Lockhart jsalvani@illinois.edu or 217-300-2869. community members, and We appreciate all our supporters and gifts of any Jeffrey & Julie Dreebin other supporters who help amount make a difference. The list below includes Paul & Teresa Dubravec donors of $100+ (organizations are listed in bold). For David Dungan & Mary Granato Dungan make those experiences a complete list of donors, please visit www.bands.

Sandra Ettema & Steven Everitt Paula & Ronald Filler possible. Across all aspects illinois.edu/giving or scan the QR code above.

Linda & Roger Fornell The following have chosen to support Illinois of the Marching Illini and Bands through a bequest or other planned gift Christ Forte concert ensembles, donors (organizations are listed in bold): John Frauenhoffer Kenlyn & Matthew Geraldi provide students with Sue Bergstrom Katie & Kevin Gibbons David Bruns & Leigh Deusinger opportunities to perform, grow, and represent the University of John & Michelle Hackett Timothy Daughters Chris & Nancy Hammitt Illinois in new and exciting ways.

James Frame & Candace Penn Frame James & Pamela Hess Kathleen Harvey Lori & Reiner Hinner Larry Houtz Support is the key to establishing a recognizable brand, and for Anne & Colin Holbrook Elizabeth Hunke & Stephen Ross creating an exceptional program that is truly enriching for all Andrew & Sara Isbell Susan Lee & James Lund Julie & William Jastrow students in our ensembles. According to Ed Harvey (BS ’72, MS Eric Lernor Carlyle Johnson & Judith Roudez Holly & Kenneth Mathiesen ’76), the Illinois Bands program accomplishes both. Ed was a Patricia Justice Jennifer Nevius Kappa Kappa Psi member of both the Marching Illini and concert bands, conducted Anthony Pomonis Thomas Keegan & Nancy Moskowitz Joseph & Pamela Rank

by Mark Hindsley and Harry Begian. He still participates in David & Jennifer Knickel Donna & Mark Rolih David & Linda Kranz University Band and Summer Band. As a long-time supporter, Ed Janet & Richard Schroeder Kenneth Krynicki & Victoria Walter-Krynicki is clear about what Illinois Bands is doing right: our continuous John Spaulding Brandi & Jason Lowe Marjorie Sullins connection with people. “What we’re doing on a statewide Rebecca & Scott Macleod David & Deborah Trotter Edmund March & Kameron March basis is great,” he noted. Whether performing at athletic events, David Voelpel Andrea & Matthew Martyn Lisa Weinstein collaborating with schools and community ensembles, or Claude & Lynda McKibben Gerard & Whitney Neufeld-Kaiser $25,000+ representing the university on national stages, Illinois Bands Estelle & Nicholas Nicholson creates meaningful experiences that extend far beyond campus. Ed Elizabeth & Richard Engelbrecht-Wiggans The Orbsone Fund Michael LaRocque & Jon Toman knows this level of involvement makes Illinois a special program, Bruce & Patricia Mack Jeffrey & Marianne Pankow Margene & Peter Pappas Irene & Tim Sewell saying, “With band, we live it every day.”

Amy & Dennis Pessis Ward & Mary Wilson Endowment Fund Patricia & Thomas Porter Many people assume that programs can easily build such a public $24,999-$10,000 Gayl Pyatt Cindy Capek & Edward Harvey Jeff Randall and engaging presence simply with work and outreach, but the Christopher & Maureen Durack Joseph & Pamela Rank reality remains that support from donors directly stimulates Macys Bloomingdales Gregory & Julie Reckamp student success and program opportunities. Ed knows that a Claudia & Dan Richards $9,999-$5,000 Eric & Lisa Robeson program is only as strong as its support structure. “We have a great Alan & Maria Blair Kim Robeson Schwenk & Dean Schwenk Roy Bond thing going at Illinois,” Ed explained. “What’s left is to make sure Phyllis Robeson James Frame & Candace Penn Frame Amelia & Ben Russell people not only know in what ways they can help, but also getting Kathleen Harvey Meenal Sethna Patrick Moran everyone, including fans or people with no direct connection to Wynn Smiley George & Suzanne Pagels Bands, interested to help and support the work going on.”

Arthur & Tracey Smith Michael L. VanBlaricum & Phillip Snow Pamela Calvetti VanBlaricum Anne & Greg Taubeneck Every gift helps ensure that Illinois Bands can provide life$4,999-$2,500 Dave & Debbie Trotter Bob Rogers Travel changing opportunities for students, either by supporting any of UnitedHealthcare John & Niki Devereux Cheryl & Russel Weber our Athletic or Concert Band scholarship funds, or through gifts Aldena & Rodney Everhart Phillip Whipple James & Kristin Flores to the Loyalty or Marching Illini Funds. Donor support allows John & Nancy Whitecar Michael & Sarah Gamage our students and program to thrive, while sharing music with Karen & William Winget Kelly & Michael Garst Douglas & Patricia Yeo communities across Illinois and beyond. To learn more about how Bill & Deb Harrison Gregory & Lori Yuccas James & Susan Hatfield to support Illinois Bands, explore available giving methods, and $999 - $500 Carol & Craig Levin see how donors are making a real difference, visit bands.illinois.

Eduardo & Teresa Acuna Elizabeth & Peter March John Bell Holly (Acker) & Kenneth Mathiesen edu/giving.

Rowen Bell Don & Elizabeth Palmer Thomas Bieber & Barbara Petro Roger Ray 13 Mary Ann Boggs Paul & Susan Schlesinger Jill & Joseph Bonucci Janet & Richard Schroeder

How the generosity of alumni and friends creates lifechanging opportunities for Illinois Bands students

Krista & Matthew Braun Adam & Lissa Broome Elaine & Nicholas Brown Kevin Burnside & Brent Reifsteck Karen Clausius & Douglas Fitzgerald Andrew & Jacqueline Colgan Renee Colon Dennis Craig Bonnie & John Dauer John Davidson & Shirley Schaeffer Kenneth Davis Diane Denault Carolyn & Patrick Donnelly Heidi & Timothy Egan James Emme Danielle & Ellis Evans Teresa Geary Guardian Charles & Linda Gullakson Joseph Hanley & Kristy Mardis Elizabeth Hendrick-Barstead Jack Henhapl Denise Hodges Victoria & Collin Huart Karen Hummel Benjamin & Jodie Jackels Keri Jackson Alice & Rick Joellenbeck Clifford Johnson & Cristina Medrano-Johnson Eric & Heather Johnson David Jones & Renata Moore-Jones Jon & Robin Kaler Elizabeth Kean & Marion O’Leary Lisa & Peter Kim Marybeth King David & Kelly Koster Krista’s Legacy Foundation Joan & Ronald Larner Rebecca Larsen Warren Lavey & Holly Rosencranz Bruce & Vicki Lewey Gary Livesay & Valerie Vlahakis Daniel & Joanne Lockard Cheryl & Robb Lucas Marshall & Nancy Mabie William MacAdam & Sara Phillips-MacAdam Julia & Michael Maschek Patrick Meehan & Julie O’Connor Joseph & Lois Morrow Linda & Thomas Murray Clifford Nelson David O’Connor & Caroline West Beau & Erin O’Hara Christopher & Colleen Olechowski Jeffrey & Rebecca Olson Paulette & Robert Pahlke Diedra Richards Rebecca & Verlin Richardson Jeffrey Rohrer & Joyce Kim-Rohrer Scott & Sue Romans Patricia & William Ronna Robert Ruckrigel Steven Sabourin Mark & Julie Samaras Pamela & Kevin Sawatzky Reid Sawyer Martha & Craig Schiele Heather Schrof Patricia & Dennis Schwarzentraub Silva Rezvani Family Artie Smith James Sober & Jeannine Young Gail & Joseph Spytek Joanna Stasiek Andrew & Denise Stein Robert & Cheryl Summerer Mason & Tanya Thulin Walter & Karyl Tyler Mandi Urban-Lester Jeffrey & Kimberly Wahl Eric Whitaker

Eric & Andrea White Mark & Susan Wisthuff Sallie Wolf Heath Wright & Michelle Kelly $499 - $250 Kenneth & Doris Altman Lois Balk Scott & Shannon Banjavcic Joanne Bannon & Edward Tarbuck Theodore & Sharon Barczak Linda Bergstrom Andrea & Adam Biernacki Matthew Bonderski & Hannah Kuhl Kerri & Jeff Boone Stefanie Boucher Jeffrey & Stephanie Bryk Kevin & Kimberly Butler Karen Capria Melissa & Rob Carlin Alexander & Lauren Clawson Kathleen & Wayne Corley Phillip Craft & Michelle Fortier Kimberly & Keith Darby Jeremy Dembowski Marie-Elise Diamond Robert & Katherine Evans Mary Evans Bret & Karrin Frost Leslie & Kent Geibel Geiger Farms Gina & Kevin Geraldi Michael & Margaret Gleason Aaron Greven & Kristin Boeke-Greven Susan & Thomas Grey Jane Groft Richard & Mary Haines James Hall Holly & Justin Hayna Richard & Judy Helm Martha & Robert Henderson Catherine & Scott Hendrickson Heather & Dana Hermanson Paul Hester Robert & Cynthia Hormell Ann & Patrick Hughes Ruth Hughes-McElravey Laurie Johnson & Carl Niekerk Jason & Tamzen Jones Patrick & Melissa Jung Imran Kazmi Delbert Ketteman Nicholas King Judy & Jonathan Klem Amy & Brian Knetl William Komarek & Anisha Sood Richard & Diana Kurasz Carol Larson Kenneth & Casandra Larvenz Reid Lasley Diane & James Lauridsen Cynthia Lauridsen-Grant Gregory & Cynthia Learnard Brenda Lowman Jamey & Caroline Mack Marilyn Marshall David & Linda Maurer Stephen & Anne McClary Ian & Kristine McPheron Christopher & Cherise Mead Michael & Teresa Meyer William & Christine Miller Susan & Truman Moore Bruce & Kathy Moss Steve & Marian Mueller Jeremiah Mulvihill Jason Murr & Kimberly Darby Diane & Thomas Newkirk Sue & Dan O’Leary Ann Pastrovich Mari & Thor Paulson David Perzov & Erin Leuschel-Perzov Elizabeth & Stephen Peterson

Andrew & Theresa Piotrowski Michael & Diane Potts Samuel & Rowena Rea David & Nancy Richardson Judith Rosenstein Kathryn Rouker Carla Samuel-Parks Steven & Norma Schehl Tobie Schroeder Cheryl & Steven Seibert Shanbaum LLC Benjamin & Amanda Shanbaum Steven & Megan Shebik Jeffrey Sibley Jennifer Silva Ken & Mary Slonneger Jennifer & Franklin Stanhope Patrick & Mariann Stanton Lawrence & Lauren Stoner Laurence Svab Kimberly & Mark Tallungan William Theisen & Amy McArthur Dennis Thiel Bruce Tomkins Meridee & Jack Van Draska Jennifer & Matthew Vandewiele Jean & Gregory Verklan Wendy & Steve Walker Holly & Jim Walter Jacob & Patricia Weaver Alan Wesa Rodney & Susan Williams Alan Wong Cheryl & James Wormley Yoga Cave $249 - $100 Jennifer Abernathy Larry & Marsha Ackerman Martin & Nancy Akins William & Donna Alberth Joshua Allen Stephen & Judy Altaner Ian Anderson Christina & Jeffrey Anderson Ronald & Constance Anderson Timothy & Jennifer Anderson Zachary & Megan Anderson Louis & Kathyrn Aranda Karen & Allan Atchison Travis Atchison Vasanth Ayothiraman Bruce & Deborah Baker Amy Ball Kim Marie Ball Richard & Katherine Bartell Jeanne Bauer & Michael Hamlette Patricia Beagle James Beckwith & Sandra Kofler Robert & Carol Behnke David & Michelle Bellia Annmarie Belmonte Spencer & Carol Berry Kedar & Shreya Bhagath Carter & Patricia Black Debra & William Blair William & Ada Bleecker Paul & Deborah Boehm Dalvin & Jean Boone Ryan Boone Robert & Carolyn Boucher Donna & Jerome Brand Elizabeth Brandt & Michael Preusch Susan Brasmer & Thomas McKinley Cynthia & Clark Breeze Michael Bresnan Donald & Margaret Briskin Craig Brown James Brucker Gordon Buchanan & Hanna Stevens Joseph & Holly Buckley Dawn Bujol Julie & Thomas Burenga

Sandra & Stephen Burgener Cheryl & Craig Burr Amy & Jason Burrows Christopher & Maureen Buti Stanley Cain Neal Cammy Timothy & Melissa Campbell Stephen & Tricia Cannedy David & Laverne Carlson Laurel Carney-Zelko & Frank Zelko Kevin Carroll Peter Case Michael Casey John & Brenda Casper Ross & Margaret Cavitt Michael Cerutti Steven & Susan Chamberlin Thomas Cherry Eileen Chiou Anthony & Molly Cinnamon Roger Clark & Fredric Hoffman Thomas & Amy Clark Renee Cohen Amy Cole James Conybear David & Jane Cooke Paul & Janelle Corn Benjamin Correll Janet & Steve Covert Mary Ann Coyle Agnes Cress Nathan Cress Catherine & Bob Crowley Steven & Dawn Curran Caroline Cvetkovic & Douglas Litteken Cynthia Yesko Joanna Dahl Alan & Shelley Davis John & Martha Davis Michael Davis & Barbara Hutchinson Judith Davis-Helms Debra & David Dembowski Therese & Jeffrey DeMouy Annette & Scott Detwiler David Dilan & Magdalena Kurp-Dilan Thomas Dillavou Luann Dockery Scott Dodd Jennifer & Brandt Dolce Daniel Donovan Linda Donovan Jeffrey & Jill Dorries Anthony & Denene Doughty Jolene Drew Scott Duff Marilyn Duginger Terry Dull & Margaret O’Brien Amelia & Ata Durukan Russell Duszak Brenda Egel Stephen Eisenstein & Deane Brown Steven Emme Marisa Farr Sunna & James Farraday Anthony & Jennifer Farrell Mary Jo Fasan Judy Faulkner Jason Feehan & Margaret Mahoney Paula & Marshall Felbein Brian Ferguson Ronald & Nicole Fiorito Kathy Fiorito Melinda Fogarty Jason & Jeanette Folkenroth Michael Folliard & Christina Klintworth William & Heidi Fornes Kyle & Amy Freeman Lisa & Andrew French Katelyn French Walter & Iris Friesner Michael & Sandra Frost Mary Gaido Christopher & Holly Gange

Amy Garant John & Deborah Gardner Renee Garrett & Roy Wollen Ellen Gayde James Geiger Edward & Margaret Germain Margaret Ghering Andrew & Michelle Gibson Kevin Gilbert Mark Gilbert Daniel Gilpin Anna Gleason Kathryn Gleason Michelle Gleason Sean Gleason Eric Gobst Susan Goetz Nancy Gore Matthew Gornick Lynn Grabher Bradtke Ellen Greaves Betty Green Andrew & Margaret Gregory Ann Grice Paul & Sandra Grice Gregory Grobarcik Carol & Walter Gruchala Kathleen Guarna & Matthew Johnson Michelle & Robert Gura Amy & Mark Gurra David & Teresa Hagerman Michael Hall Matthew Hammel & Janet Agenlian Michael & Susan Haney Matti & Mary Harm Roberta Harris James Hart Joseph & Karen Hartman Leah & Obeddie Hawkins Thomas Hawley & Tom Mantel Michael Heaton Michael & Madi Hebert Christine & Bruce Hegemann Raymond Heinz Marlene Helgesen Leanna Helmuth Bryce & Melissa Henderson Shanelle Herman Jonas & Kathleen Heuer Sheila Heuer Theodore Hofer Michael & Linda Hollyman Barry & Abigail Houser Megan & Troy Huber Sharon Huff Traci Hurley Charles & Ruth Isaacson Pawel Jablonski Jason & Tracy Jacobs Kimberly & Paul Jemmi Lesley Jenkins Shaun Jennings Bruce Johnson Melissa Johnson Jason Jones Lance Jones Tom Jozefowicz Judge’s Assistant Deborah & Stephen Kasak Kathleen Keating David & Carrie Kelly Jakob Kelly Justin Kern & Kayla Daugherty-Kern Susan & Robert Kern Stephanie Kim Karen Kimball Stacy Kingery Matthew & Karen Klickman Melissa & Matthew Knapik Kenneth & Kristin Kocolowski Marion Kocolowski Etsuko & Stephen Koerner

Thomas & Megan Kostal George & Sara Kuhns Poorna Kumar David & Ann Kurlinkus Ellen Kuroghlian Elizabeth & Vincent Kurr Therese & Bradley Lane Carla Lang Marcia Leander & Harry Hadiaris Brett Lee Susan Lee & James Lund Linda & Russell Leigh Brenda Leonard Mark & Audrey Levin Gabriel Lewis Daniel & Tammy Lezotte Louis & Mary Liay Daniel & Dorothy Lillig Josie Linda Christopherson & Travis Christopherson Mark & Martha Lindvahl William & Coradel Little Karen Lockett & Gregory Sims Susan & Robert Losby Laura Luckadoo Mike & Christy Lutz Sarah & Paul Lyons Bruce & Gail Mack Stephen & Janet Madden Stephen & Heidi Majerczak Robert & Karyn Malench Thomas & Janina Malinowski Alek Mann Joanne Mann Susan Marchi Cheryl Mark Kiley & Michael Marsaglia Merany Martinez Doreen Mason Ashley Massa Mary Massey Terrence McBurney Candice McCafferty Joy & Ralph McClaugherty Christine McGahan Julianne Spaulding McKinzie Conor McPheron Earl & Cynthia Meister Robert & Lorraine Merker Curtis & Alice Merrill Ellen Mettler George Meyer John Meyer Polly Middleton Marian Milling Becki Jo Miranda Brian & Bonnie Mitchell Brian & Cynthia Mogensen Angela & Brian Monk Debra Montilla Stephen & Serena Moon Joan & Steven Moore Jaime & Nicholas Mossman Renee Mroz Steven & Maggie Mroz Danny Mullins Dawn Munson Cathy & John Murr Julie & Rich Murray Cynthia & David Nadig Emily & Milo Neal Laura & Veat Neal Andrea & Kyle Neilson Megan Neilson Douglas Nelson & Janet Ellis-Nelson Kim Nickelson & Louis Sguros Danielle Nommensen Elizabeth North Thomas & Valerie Oakley Catherine Olson Ronald Olson Tom Olson

Derek Oscar Cheri Osnacz Noelle Osterbur Nancy & Joel Ottosen Michelle Ovando Roger & Kelly Owdom Martha Palit Roberta & Albert Panozzo Laurel Passantino Kimberly Pavey Thomas & Maureen Pavletic Peter Perisin Perkins Family Charitable Fund Stacey Peterik Janet & Kenneth Peters Eric Pfeiffer Phi Gamma Delta Kathleen Pierotti Lisa Pingel Jacob & Angela Pinholster Michael & Muffy Pinney Justin Poole Geri Prileau Benjamin & Kathleen Ramp Brian & Jaclyn Ramsey Karen Ranney Maureen Reagan & Bruce Zimmerman Paul Reckamp Jim Redlich & Myra Epping Daniel Remus David & Janice Requa Luzern & Joann Richter Amanda & Daniel Riordan Marygene & Stephen Ritchie Emily & Alexander Rivera James Roberts & Carolyn Horne Patricia & Gregory Robinson Paul Roche Jennifer & Mitchell Rogers Dorothy Romberg Miriam Romo Yvette Rosemont Cassie Rosenberger Susan & Daniel Rosenthal Judy Roth Michelle & Daniel Rowin Paul & Leslie Rudolph John Rushing Morgan Salmi Rafael Salvani Joseph & Lisa Sanstrom Patricia Sawatzky Douglas & Lynne Scafe Joel & Sarah Schad Karl & Melanie Scheer Tyler & Joan Schehl Gregory & Kathleen Schissler Juanita Schlarmann Jennifer Schleiben Norman & Margaret Schlueter Christopher & Mary Schmitz Herbert Schneiderman Randall & Rosemary Scholl Wallace & Patricia Schroth Aaron Schumm & Sanskriti Thakur Barbara Schweizer Jenna Schwenker Therese Schwerzler Scoop Du Jour Scott Family Chiropractic Clinic Beth Shackelford Suzanne Shell Ned Siegel Arthur Sievers Dan & Michelle Simmons Earl & Julie Simmons Dawn & Brent Sinclair John & Janet Skadden Terry & Katharine Slocum Daniel Small Susan & Kevin Small Lawrence Smith

Mark & Rebecca Smith Donna Smith Sarah Smith Shelly Snap Jason & Sarah Snyder Diane Sober Kelly Sohn Christopher & Amanda Sosnowski Tracey Splitt Valerie & Gregory Springborn Brian & Wendy Stabler Kimberly Stafford Bob & Eileen Stanley Jennifer Stephens Steps Dance Center John & Glendia Strandin George Strombeck Philip Sun Tony & Mary Suttle Peter & Cathy Swank Lori Swanson Jennifer & Joseph Swayne Marie Swenson Zhichao Tan & Hong Zhang Sonya Taylor Jennifer & John Tenuto David Thomas Jacqueline Thomas Christina & Timothy Thompson Thrive Physical Therapy Partners Marianne & Christopher Tichenor John & Nancy Tolar Donna Tomhave Eric Toth Wendy Toth Dale & Martha Traxler Jeffrey & Ruth Trimble Brian & Angela Truesdale Kris Tsau Danyel Turner Village Green Dental Center Carrie & Scott Vogel DeeAnna & Ryan Von Holten Lynn Von Holten VS Manufacturing Aimee & John Waddell Michael Waldbusser Jessie Walker Mark & Jessica Walker Richard & Polina Waller Thomas Webb & Kathleen Soso Robert & Karyn Weber George Weedon Lisa Weinstein Cheriann West Dennis Westegaard & Laura Raver Lynette Wheeler William White Ralph & Susan Whitsitt Sandra Wilkey-Muller & Karl Muller Phyllis Winters-Williams & Joseph Williams Lorraine & Kenneth Wistrom Raymond & Manami Wleklinski Robert & Susan Wolter Jim & Joy Woolley Patricia Wrobel Kimberly & Daniel Wurl Gina & Jonathan Wych Yang Xiang Marilyn Yerkey John & Cynthia Yesko Timothy & Mary Young Melinda Zeagler/Haynie John & Linda Zimmermann Roger & Joan Zmrhal Jessica Zobrist Catherine Zultner

ILLINOIS BANDS 1103 South Sixth Street Champaign, IL 61820

FOLLOW ILLINOIS BANDS ONLINE!

The Illinois Bands YouTube presence continues to grow! We hope you will subscribe to watch the various concert band performances and interviews that are posted online, and to see all of our pregame and halftime performances. Also, you can stay connected with our concert bands and Marching Illini by following us on Instagram.

217-333-3025 bands@illinois.edu

illinois_bands marchingillini

bands.illinois.edu marchingillini.com

@universityofillinoisbands @marchingillini

University of Illinois Bands Marching Illini

@marchingillini