Youth Brass Day 2026

Join the Chicago Brass Band for Youth Brass Day 2026, an exciting full-day event designed for brass and percussion students who want to experience the energy and teamwork of a British-style brass band. Participants will rehearse with outstanding conductors, work alongside experienced musicians, and perform an exhibition for families at the end of the day. Whether you are completely new to brass banding or already love the sound of brass bands, Youth Brass Day is a fun and welcoming opportunity to grow as a musician and meet students from across Chicagoland.

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Who

Youth Brass Day is open to brass and percussion students in grades 7-12. Students of all experience levels are encouraged to participate, including members of school bands, youth orchestras, marching bands, and private studios.

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Eligible instruments include:

• Trumpet / Cornet

• Flugel Horn

• French Horn / Tenor Horn

• Baritone

• Euphonium

• Trombone

• Bass Trombone

• Tuba

• Percussion

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What

Participants will:

• Rehearse in a full British brass band

• Work with experienced conductors and brass educators

• Learn about brass band style and instrumentation

• Build confidence in ensemble playing

• Meet and collaborate with students from other schools

• Perform an exhibition for families at the end of the day
   

Students will also learn more about opportunities to join the Chicago Academy Brass Band during the 2026–2027 competition season.

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When

Saturday, June 27, 2026
Rehearsals begin at 9:00 am

Exhibition begins at 6:30 pm

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Where

College of DuPage

McAninch Arts Center

425 Fawell Blvd

Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

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Why Participate?

Youth Brass Day is more than just a workshop. It is a chance to experience the unique sound, teamwork, and excitement of the British brass band tradition. Students will develop musicianship, leadership, listening skills, and confidence while making new friends who share a passion for music.

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For students interested in taking the next step, Youth Brass Day also serves as an introduction to the Chicago Academy Brass Band’s regular season program, which rehearses from November through April and plans to compete at the North American Brass Band Association Championships.

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Registration

Registration includes a full day of musical activities featuring full-band rehearsals, sectionals led by expert brass and percussion clinicians, and an evening exhibition for family and friends.

 

Participants will also receive lunch and dinner as part of their registration.

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Participation in Youth Brass Day is open to all eligible students, and no formal audition is required to register. Students are encouraged, but not required, to submit a short video demonstrating their playing ability so that conductors can make thoughtful decisions about part assignments, ensemble placement, and music selection. Students who do not submit a video are still fully welcome to participate.

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Registration Fee: $120 (T-shirt free for participants who register by 6/5 -- additional T-shirt orders may be placed upon later registration as supply allows.)​

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Space may be limited, so early registration is encouraged.

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Questions?

For additional information, please contact:

Karen Stafford
youthbands@chicagobrassband.org