2026-2027 Season

The Chicago Academy Brass Band is a premier youth brass and percussion program dedicated to inspiring young musicians through the exciting tradition of the British brass band. Our regular season will run from November through May, culminating in performances and participation in the North American Brass Band Association Championships.

 

Rehearsal locations, rehearsal schedule, tuition information, and concert dates for the 2026–2027 season will be announced soon.

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The Chicago Academy Brass Band provides students with opportunities for high-level ensemble performance, musical growth, leadership development, and lasting friendships.​

 

Our Program

The Chicago Academy Brass Band grew out of the highly successful “Windy City Brass Academy Band” one-day events held at Mundelein High School in June 2024 and College of DuPage in January 2025. Beginning in Fall 2025, the ensemble expanded into a regular weekly rehearsal group, and in the 2026–2027 season the organization will officially launch as the Chicago Academy Brass Band.

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Our goal is to create a welcoming but ambitious musical environment where students of many experience levels can thrive. Inspired by nationally recognized programs that include multiple ensembles and educational pathways, the Academy plans to grow over time as interest and participation increase.

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Who Can Participate?

The Chicago Academy Brass Band welcomes motivated brass and percussion students from across the Chicagoland area. Students in middle school and high school are encouraged to participate.

Eligible instruments include:

• Trumpet / Cornet

• Flugel Horn

• Tenor Horn / French Horn

• Baritone

• Euphonium

• Trombone

• Bass Trombone

• Tuba

• Percussion

Students do not need prior brass band experience to join.

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Audition & Placement Information

Participation in the Chicago Academy Brass Band 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 and music selection. Students who do not submit a video are still fully welcome to participate.

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Optional video submission:

Students may submit:

• Approximately one minute of playing

• Any solo, etude, scale, or band excerpt of their choice

• A recent recording is acceptable

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Why Join?

Students who participate in the Chicago Academy Brass Band will:

• Perform exciting and challenging music

• Build confidence as ensemble musicians

• Learn from outstanding brass educators

• Meet students from schools across the region

• Experience the thrill of brass band competition

• Become part of a welcoming musical community

Whether students are looking for a new musical challenge or simply wanting to make music with other dedicated young musicians, the Chicago Academy Brass Band offers an inspiring place to grow.