Preparing the musicians for their performance isn’t the only part of getting ready for Chicago.  “The planning required for a trip of this scale is extensive and can be quite daunting.”, remarked NHS Band Booster President Doug Woodley.  “Fortunately, our band boosters bring a wealth of experience to efforts such as this, with lessons learned from recent trips like our 2024 trip to Pasadena for the Tournament of Roses Parade”.

 The Chicago trip’s plan took an unexpected twist late last year when the festival travel company couldn’t get airline reservations for the band.  As a result, the band will travel on three charter buses, a 16-hour trip each way.  “It’s obviously not what we originally planned”, added Woodley.  “But thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, we will still be able to provide an incredible opportunity for our students. I have no doubt that the months of preparation and hard work will allow these wonderful kids to create lasting memories on this trip.”

Besides their own performance, the Wind Symphony will also take part in a private clinic with Colonel Jason Fettig, former Director of the “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band (one of the top wind ensembles in the world) and current Director of Bands at the University of Michigan.  The musicians will learn from and play with Colonel Fettig and will also have an opportunity to interact with him in a question-and-answer session. 

The trip isn’t all “business” though.  In between their clinic, sound check, and performance, the band will experience a few highlights of Chicago, including a deep-dish pizza dinner, a sightseeing tour of downtown landmarks, a Chicago Symphony Orchestra concert, a visit to Millennium Park, and an afternoon at the Shedd Aquarium.  “The trip is all about the students getting to experience something most have never done before”, explained Head Chaperone Cliff Ritchey.  “Our group of chaperones are here to help ensure the kids have a great experience while at the same time making sure they do what they need to and are where they need to be at the right times”.

As their final preparation before heading to Chicago, the Wind Symphony will put on a concert in the new NHS Multi-Purpose Building on March 9 at 7:00pm to showcase their full program for the festival. “We are incredibly proud and excited for our kids and their directors to get to be a part of this,” said NHS Principal Charlie Marello, “Only 5 high school bands in the entire country received this invitation so that speaks to how prestigious and exclusive the event us and what talented musicians we have at NHS.”  In addition to families of musicians, the local community is invited to attend. Admission is free and the concert should last approximately 45 minutes.