Founded in 1991 by George Foster and William Homer, the Illinois Brass Band is made up of volunteer musicians from northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin . Throughout its illustrious history, the band - a member of the North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) - has won six NABBA championships, hosted a NABBA competition, and competed at the British Open in Birmingham, England, all while maintaining a regular
series of 15 – 20 concerts per year.
Outside of the competition ring, the Illinois Brass Band's concert schedule includes an annual concert with the Elgin Historical Society featuring historic music from the Elgin Watch Factory Band, several church concert series, and appearances in summer concert series in Arlington Heights, Plainfield, and the Chicago Botanical Gardens.
Music director Dr. Ryan T. Nelson is the Associate Director of Bands at Northwestern University , where he conducts the Symphonic Band. In addition, Dr. Nelson directs the Contemporary Music Ensemble, the Musical Theatre Program, and teaches courses in conducting, wind literature, and music education.
Recently, the Illinois Brass Band placed 3rd in the 2007 NABBA Championships. Plans for the upcoming season include several summer concert appearances and a new album of previously unreleased brass band music from the Elgin Watch Factory.
Hosting provided by Americaneagle.com, a proud supporter of the Illinois Brass Band.
Our photo was taken by Notable Images, www.notableimages.net. Please contact the IBB President for permission to use our photo.
