Illinois State University Bands

06/16/2026

06/05/2026

It is with deep sadness and profound gratitude that the Illinois State University Bands family mourns the passing of one of our own — Frank R. Payton Jr. While our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life extraordinarily well lived.

A Chicago native and proud ISU alumnus, Frank graduated from our Music Education and Art program in August 1977 and went on to leave an indelible mark on everyone he touched.

He served his country with tremendous courage in the United States Air Force, completing two tours in Vietnam and later serving as Band Superintendent of the 566th Air Force Band — performing for the President of the United States, the Secretary of Defense, and the Queen of Denmark.

After his military service, Frank devoted himself to shaping the next generation of musicians as Director of Bands at Parkside Junior High School in Normal, Illinois. Additionally, countless music educators have called Frank an incredible colleague and caring mentor.

Rest in peace, Frank. Your music, your service, and your kindness will echo in our hearts forever.

05/31/2026

Congratulations to the 2026 Summer Alumni Concert Band on a FANTASTIC performance yesterday! We look forward to making music with you again next year!

05/27/2026

5 DAYS LEFT TO REGISTER FOR CAMP!

Registration for Junior High and High School Band Camp closes June 1.

Join us on the campus of Illinois State University for a fun week of music-making!

Register HERE:
finearts.illinoisstate.edu/bands/band-camps/

05/22/2026

Congrats to ILSTU Bands Graduate Teaching Assistant Madison Mueller-Howell on completing her Master of Music degree in Trumpet Performance and being named the new Director of Bands for the Lakeview School District (PA)!

05/21/2026

Season tickets are on sale for the Fall 2026 season! Check out the flyer from Athletics in this post and you can purchase at the link below - they are on sale now!

https://goredbirds.evenue.net/events/FST

05/18/2026

Congrats to Illinois State University Bands Graduate Teaching Assistant Colby Powers on completing his graduate degree in Conducting! Colby has been an invaluable member of our team for the past two years and has accepted a position in Colorado as the new Director of Bands at Bennett Middle and High Schools!

05/12/2026

Come out and listen to generations of wind band alums as they perform LIVE in the Illinois State Alumni Concert Band!

FREE ADMISSION - Saturday, May 30 | 4:00 P.M. in the Joliet West High School auditorium.

Concert will be livestreamed from the Illinois State University Bands page.

05/06/2026

If your are an incoming/new member to BRMM this fall, please take a moment and complete the Preseason Instruction Week Registration Form linked below - we can't wait to meet you!

2026 Preseason Instruction Week Registration - New/Incoming Members