Gala Homecoming Concert featuring UI Wind Symphony, UI Wind Orchestra, and the Marching Illini

Everyone is invited to this gala University of Illinois Bands Homecoming Concert—but especially all Illinois band alumni and their families and friends! The Wind Orchestra, the Illinois Wind Symphony, and the Marching Illini will perform a concert you won’t want to miss. This gala event is also part of the university's sesquicentennial celebration.

A preeminent ensemble in the world, the University of Illinois Wind Symphony premieres new works, travels to national and international events, and sets the standard for band performance and training. Its members are undergraduate and graduate students who excel at playing the traditional band repertoire, works for small chamber groups, and innovative new pieces. Since its inception, it has served as an ambassador for the historic Illinois Bands program and is an innovator in the wind band field. They will be performing Percy Grainger's Lincolnshire Posy and John Philip Sousa's University of Illinois March.The group will be conducted by Stephen G. Peterson.

The outstanding musicians in the University of Illinois Wind Orchestra excel at a wide range of musical styles and are committed to expanding band music's reaches as they undertake works for large or small groups, traditional pieces, and new compositions. This group will perform Jame Curnow's Illini Fantasy and Aaraon Perrine's A Glimpse of the Eternal. The Illinois Wind Orchestra is directed by Elizabeth Peterson.

The Marching Illini is conducted by Director Barry L. Houser, along with Assistant Director Sean Smith. Since 1867, the Marching Illini have performed across the globe, making them "The Nation's Premier College Marching Band." This group continues its pursuit of the highest levels of musical, visual, and entertaining performances.

This performance will last approximately one hour and 10 minutes with no intermission.