The History of The Illinois Brass Band

6 Time North American Brass Band Champions

Early Beginnings

"Inspired by the fall 1990 tour of the Desford Colliery Caterpillar Band, the Illinois Brass Band was founded by George Foster and William Homer in February 1991 under the conductor of Bruce Briney. The band was formed in the tradition of the British brass band and is dedicated to bringing the finest brass band music available to Chicagoland and Midwest audiences."

That paragraph was the opening to IBB concert programs for the first seven or eight years of IBB's existence. But what was the actual beginning of the band? Formed with help from Boosey and Hawkes, the band origially rehearsed in the Boosey and Hawkes warehouse in Libertyville. Boosey and Hawkes helped the band by financing loans for the cornets, tenor horns, and baritone horns - the horns not found in an American style community band. Founding members told stories of rehearsing near the loading dock, and of a pop machine with beer in it! The first concert was at Cuneo Gardens in Vernon Hills in the summer of 1991 (photo at left, recently found recording of that first concert is here.)

George and Bill had grand plans for the band, most noticeably being becoming a competition band. The North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) was in its early beginnings as well, and their annual competition became a goal of the band. Those competitions became a staple of the band, and of its growth. The results of those competitions are addressed in another section.

The band soon realized that local park districts will pay the band to perform concerts in the park. This quickly became a staple of funding for the band. Unlike most adult bands, IBB isn't funded by any community. IBB has always prided itself on being more than a "community" band and has had to work hard to pay its bills, and therefore the band has improved by playing outdoor summer concerts. Some summers the band has played more than 10 concerts. Yes its hard work, but the money helps, and the band improves.

Next

Music Directors

Dr. Bruce Briney

Dr. Bruce Briney (upper left) was appointed the first conductor of the Illinois Brass Band in March, 1991. He was tasked by founders George Foster and Bill Homer to lead the band during its infancy. Bruce was a steady influence on the podium, bringing his extensive background as a trumpet performer and conductor. He lead the band to their first NABBA Competition in 1993.

Dr. Briney left the band in fall of 1993 to become trumpet professor at Western Illinois University. He frequently has returned to the band to guest conduct.

Dr. Colin Holman

After playing third cornet with IBB in NABBA 1993, Dr. Colin Holman (middle left) was appointed music director of IBB in September, 1993. Colin brought his experiences of growing up in England and participating in brass bands to the IBB podium. His impact was immediately felt, as he brought in new members from his other ensembles. Perhaps his greatest accomplishment was achieved in the NABBA competition arena. He started the trend of playing two test pieces on the competition stage. This started in his first NABBA on the podium in 1994, and continues to this day. Almost every other NABBA band now plays two test pieces. The band's competition successes under Colin are addressed in the NABBA page.

Colin led the band on its first trip to England in 2000. Cleverly named "UK2K", the band performed over 10 schools concerts, and also participated in the famed Whit Friday march competition.

Colin left the band after the 2001 season to pursue other endeavors. Colin has frequently returned to the band to guest conduct.

Peter Lipari

After an exhaustive search, Peter Lipari (bottom left) was named the third music director of the Illinois Brass Band, effective October 1, 2001. Peter brought his extensive orchestra background to the IBB podium, having served as the conductor of several orchestras in throughout the Chicago area. Peter emphasized lyrical playing and the band responded well to his direction.

Peter led the band to its sixth NABBA Championship, in Cincinnati, Ohio, in April of 2002. Due to the NABBA "three-peat" rule (after three consecutive wins, a band must go up a section, or sit out a year), IBB was ineligible for the 2003 NABBA competition. But NABBA had an alternative for the band. The band was invited to its first overseas competition, the 2003 British Open. IBB was the first band from outside the British Commonwealth to enter the famed competition, and finished 16th out of 18. This is addressed in the "Other Competitions" section.

Peter served as music director throughout the 2005 season.

Ryan Nelson

Ryan Nelson (upper right) was named the Illinois Brass Band's fourth music director on September 1, 2005. Ryan came to IBB from Northwestern University's band program. Ryan brought his extensive band conducting background to the IBB podium. The band continued NABBA competitions and their summer concert series grew under Ryan's baton.

Ryan left the band upon the completion the 2008 summer season.

Steve Squires

Steve Squires (bottom right) was named the fifth music director of the Illinois Brass Band, effective September 1, 2008. Steve had been a frequent guest conductor of IBB over the years, conducting several concerts including IBB's first appearance at the Illinois Music Educator's Association Conference, in 2000. Steve brought a thorough band background to IBB, after serving as the director of bands at Northern Illinois University, and Roosevelt University. Steve is an accomplished trumpet player, and his brass knowledge has served IBB well. He also is a concert pianist and has accompanied countless IBB soloists at the NABBA Solo and Ensemble contest.

Steve did have to take a hiatus from IBB during the 2011 season, due to the economic downturn. Assistant Music Director Tom Runty actually conducted the band at NABBA 2011. Steve came back to full time with the band in the summer of 2011 and has been on the podium to date. His musical knowledge has helped the band grow in many ways. Steve has been the longest tenured music director in IBB's rich history.

Next

NABBA Competitions

The Illinois Brass Band has enjoyed a rich and successful history at the North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) Championships. From their first entry in 1993 through their most recent in 2022, the band has achieved 1 first place in the First Section (previously called Honors Division), and 6 first place finishes in the Championship Division. This section will delve into this rich history.

The competition is based on British Competitions. Each band enters a class, based on their perceived talent level. Each band will give a 30 minute (or so) performance. Beginning in 1994, within each class, each band is required to play a required, or test, piece. Test pieces are difficult - they are written to challenge every member of the band. A test piece can be anywhere 12 to 18 minutes in length. The rest of the competition performance is made up of selections(s) chosen by each individual band. The bands play before three blind judges. No, the judges aren't literally blind, they are placed behind a screen so they can't see what band is performing. This is designed to make the judging as fair as possible, though as will be noted later, sometimes the judges think they know what band is performing. Each judge can give a maximum of 100 points - so a "perfect score" would be 300 (recently, the scoring system has changed to a 100 point maximum). Judges view scores of what each band is playing and talk into a recording device while the band is playing to give their critique. They also provide written comments after the performance. Sometimes the judges audio comments are the first time the band was able to hear their performance.

There is also a solo and ensemble contest that has grown over the years. Many IBB members and ensembles have competed in, and won, the contest.

Bands are randomly drawn as to their performance order. The theory goes, the later you play in your section, the better your chance is. The judges have set their "bar" on the first one or two bands, and then they have to place each subsequent band either above or below their pre-established bar. Judging is highly subjective, Judge A might like Band A's sound and style better than Judge B. That's why they have a panel of 3 judges. It helps "balance out" the judges. Judges are usually composers, conductors, or brass band performers from around North America and Europe. IBB has performed before some of the biggest names in the global brass band scene.


NABBA 1993, Washington, DC

The Beginning of a Storied Competition History

IBB attended its first NABBA Championship on April 2-3, 1993. The competition was held in Washington, DC, and hosted by the US Army Brass Band. IBB was new to the competition arena, and this was their first attempt. Directed by Bruce Briney, the band entered in the Honors (now 1st) Section, the band finished in 4th place, out of four bands. There was no test piece for 1993. The band played A Festival Prelude by Stephen Bulla, Royal Parks by George Lloyd, and Appalachian Mountain Folk Song Suite by James Curnow. The performance was a learning experience for the band.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Bruce Briney
   
Soprano Cornet Nick Drozdoff
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clark
  Cindy Scoglio
  Tom Buettgen
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Kevin Warnke
  Jim Swager
   
Third Cornet Colin Holman
   
Flugelhorn  
   
Tenor Horn Stan Bouma
  Bill Homer
   
Baritone Tom Gillette
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Jeff Slepak
Second Trombone  
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium Paul Redwood
  Ron Grundberg
   
Eb Tuba Brian Frederickson
  Ian Robinson
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
   
Percussion Ann Bidwell

NABBA 1994, Raleigh, NC

1994 NABBA Honors Division Champions, The Illinois Brass Band

From Worst to First

The band worked hard during the winter of 1994 preparing for the upcoming NABBA Championships, held this year in Raleigh, North Carolina. With seven bands entered in the Honors Division, IBB went into the competition unaware of what was about to happen. The band drew position 5 (out of 7 bands), and entered the stage to play their program. 1994 was also the year NABBA rules stated that each band must play a required, or test, piece. Laude by James Curnow was the test piece, and the band also played the march Castell Coch (TJ Powell). Based on the advice of director Colin Holman, who grew up amongst the Brass Band scene in England, the band also started a trend in NABBA, by performing a second test piece in competition, this one being The Plantagenets by Edward Gregson. This became a staple of IBB in its early years of competition, and soon copied by many bands throughout NABBA.

IBB finished a strong first place, with a score of 276. The next closest band was Eastern Iowa, with a score of 270. The judges were James Curnow, Bram Gregson, and Frank Renton. The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clak
  Laura Smith
  Bruce Briney
  Kevin Warnke
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Bob Schmelzer
  Kelly Schulz
   
Third Cornet Jim Swager
  Tom Buettgen
   
Flugelhorn Mike Harloff
   
Tenor Horn Stan Bouma
  John Aren
  Rick Nelson
  Bill Homer
   
Baritone Tom Gillette
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Jeff Slepak
Second Trombone Hank Wintczak
  Rob Barnes
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium Paul Redwood
  Ron Grundberg
   
Eb Tuba Dan Niesly
  Ian Robinson
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Brian Frederickson
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Hank Tausend

Listen to IBB's performance:

1994 IBB NABBA Performance: Castel Coch (Powell)

1994 IBB NABBA Performance: Laude (Curnow)

1994 IBB NABBA Performance: The Plantangenets (Gregson)

1994 NABBA Results


NABBA 1995, Toronto, Canada

 

A Surprising First Time in Championship Division

With nothing left to prove in the Honors Division, IBB decided to go up against the best bands in North America, and enter the Championship Division. The competition, held in Toronto, Canada, was held on April 21-22, 1995. The contest was hosted by the Weston Silver Band. Only one member of IBB entered the solo competition, John Aren on tenor horn, and he received an Honorable Mention. Colin Holman selected IBB's program, which consisted of Spectrum, by Gilbert Vinter, and the test piece, The Essence of Time, by Peter Graham. IBB performed wonderfully, and went into the awards ceremony not knowing what to expect. IBB finished a strong second, six points behind, the Brass Band of Columbus. The judges were James Curnow, Stephen Bulla, and Bramwell Tovey. Many in the band felt that "we were robbed" and that became a common joke at summer concerts. Colin would announce the results of the competition, and several members would call out "we were robbed". And Colin would answer, "yes, we were robbed." And thus a rivalry was formed between IBB and BBC that would exist for the next 10 years or so.

The band's post competition party was the start of a trend. Colin had this uncanny sense to know when to leave right before security arrived. This would occur for the next few years.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clak
  Laura Smith
  Amy Nelson
  Mike Harloff
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Paul Hawn
  Kelly Schulz
   
Third Cornet Bob Sven
  Jim Swager
   
Flugelhorn Bob Schmelzer
   
Tenor Horn Stan Bouma
  John Aren
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Brian Byrne
  John Freise
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium Ron Grundberg
  Paul Madura
   
Eb Tuba Brian Fredericksen
  Ian Robinson
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Bob Mattingly
  Phil Klickman

Listen to IBB's performance:

1995 IBB NABBA Performance: Spectrum (Vinter)

1995 IBB NABBA Performance: The Essence of Time (Graham)

1995 NABBA Results


NABBA 1996, Dublin, OH

 

A Rivalry Heats Up

NABBA 1996 was held on April 12-13, 1996, and hosted by the Brass Band of Columbus, right in their backyard. Dublin Coffman High School was the site of the competition, a suburb of Columbus.

Ian Robinson, John Meling, Brian Fredericksen (on double-bell euphonium), Rob Barnes, Ron Grundberg, and John Aren all entered the solo competition on Friday.

Saturday, five bands were entered in the Championship Division. BBC drew the first performance time, and IBB drew second. The test piece was Trittico by James Curnow. IBB continued their trend-setting ways by playing a second test piece, this one Dances and Arias by Edward Gregson. After all the bands played, the judging trio of Bram Gregson, Raymond Premru, and Ronald Waiksnoris placed IBB first with a score of 284. BBC finished second, 10.5 points behind.

The band's post victory celebration was thoroughly enjoyed by all, and Colin once again, left right before security arrived. Some were beginning to think he was calling security...

Even though it looks like it, Colin did not fly the plane back to Chicago.

Captain Colin and IBB return to Chicago victorious!

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clak
  Laura Smith
  Amy Nelson
  Kevin Warnke
  Mike Harloff
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Jim Swager
  Bob Sven
   
Third Cornet Kelly Schulz
  Paul Hawn
   
Flugelhorn Bob Schmelzer
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Brian Byrne
  Steve Porch
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium Ron Grundberg
  John Meling
   
Eb Tuba Brian Fredericksen
  Ian Robinson
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Ann Bidwell
  Jim Bessner

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

1996 IBB NABBA Performance:Trittico (Curnow)

1996 IBB NABBA Performance:Dances and Arias (Gregson)

1996 NABBA Results

1996 NABBA Judges Comments


NABBA 1997, Red Wing, MN

 

Twice Is Nice

The 1997 version of the North American Brass Band Association Championships were held on April 18-19 in Red Wing, MN. The Sheldon Theater Brass Band hosted the competition in the aptly named Sheldon Theater. On Friday Brian Byrne, Guy Clark, John Meling, Amy Nelson, Ian Robinson, Ron Grundberg, Andy Loeffler, and Rob Barnes entered the solo competition. Guy Clark finished 2nd in the Slow Melody category. Andy Loeffler and Amy Nelson received Honorable Mentions.

On Saturday, three bands took the stage in the Championship Division, with IBB being the first to play. BBC was noticeably absent this year... They opened their performance with the test piece, New Jerusalem, by Philip Wilby. The piece features an offstage solo cornet playing what composer Wilby called “The Voice of God.” Director Colin Holman, upon seeing the interior of the Sheldon Theater, noticed a sound booth at the top of the hall. He thought it would be an incredible place to put the cornet soloist, Amy Nelson. It worked to perfection, as the audience and judges (Steven Mead, David Werden, and Keith Wilkinson) were all in awe with the performance. IBB next performed the Philip Sparke test piece, Partita. IBB score of 276 was 15 points higher than Sheldon Theatre's second place.

Judge Steven Mead joined the band for their victory celebration. Once again, Colin was gone before security arrived.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clak
  Laura Smith
  Amy Nelson
  Mike Harloff
  Kevin Warnke
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Mike Ackerman
  Bob Sven
   
Third Cornet Jim Swager
  Paul Hawn
   
Flugelhorn Bob Schmelzer
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Brian Byrne
  Steve Porch
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium Ron Grundberg
  John Meling
   
Eb Tuba Roger Rocco
  Brian Fredericksen
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Ann Bidwell
  Craig Taylor

Listen to IBB's performance:

1997 IBB NABBA Performance: New Jerusalem (Wilby)

1997 IBB NABBA Performance: Partita (Sparke)

1997 NABBA Results

1997 IBB NABBA Judges Comments


NABBA 1998, Lexington, KY

 

A Funny Thing Happened on the way to the Three-Peat

NABBA 1998 was held on April 17-18, 1998, at the Singletary Center for the Arts on the campus of the University of Kentucky, in Lexington. The Lexington Brass Band was host. On Friday, Lisa-Ann Barnes, Phil Klickman, Brian Byrne, Guy Clark, John Meling, Amy Nelson, Jim Sobacki, Rob Barnes, and Andy Loeffler entered the solo competition. And a first for IBB, the Illinois Brass Band Quintet entered the ensemble competition. Amy Nelson finished second in the Adult Technical section. Phil Klickman finished second, and Brian Byrne third, in the Adult Slow Melody section. IBB has become quite accomplished in the Friday contests.

On Saturday, seven bands hit the stage in the Championship Section. IBB draw was the third band to play. NABBA has a little known rule, that IBB called the "Three-Peat" rule. Bands, upon winning their section for three consecutive years must move up a section, or sit out the following year. With IBB being in the Championship Division, the highest one, they had a plan. For a few years, IBB thought it would be good to host the championships, and to host it "the IBB way." Their goal was to win the Three-Peat in 1998, then sit out in 1999 and host the championship. They were awarded the hosting of NABBA 1999 in 1997. Everything was going to plan until the band hit the stage on April 18, During the test piece, Contest Music by Wilfred Heaton, something happened. No one is sure, but the recording shows that around the 3 minute mark, hardly any music is heard. This goes on for about two minutes until you hear bass trombonist Dave Oakley come in with a vengeance. Dave set the band back on track, and the performance continued. What happened? No one knows for sure, but by the end of the test piece, everyone in the band knew that the Three-Peat was over. During the band's performance of their choice piece, test piece Jazz by Philip Wilby, the band played with reckless abandon. They were completely loose, and played like they had never before.

When the scores were announced later that evening, IBB was floored. The judges, Bram Gay, James Hile, and Ray Tizzard placed IBB first with a score of 286, besting the second place Eastern Iowa Brass Band by 23 points! The Three-Peat was accomplished! The party that evening was held in disbelief!

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Amy Nelson
  Laura Smith
  Mike Harloff
  Mike Ackerman
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Jim Swager
  Bob Sven
   
Third Cornet Paul Hawn
  Rick Swords
   
Flugelhorn Bob Schmelzer
  Guy Clark
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Brian Byrne
  Steve Porch
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Ken Norman
   
Eb Tuba Joe Exley
  Andy Loeffler
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Tim
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Ann Bidwell
  Don Hackmeister

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

1998 IBB NABBA Performance: Contest Music (Heaton)

1998 IBB NABBA Performance: Jazz (Wilby)

1998 NABBA Results

1998 IBB NABBA Judges Comments

 


NABBA 1999, St.Charles, IL

 

Hosting is a lot of Work!

IBB got their wish. The task of hosting NABBA was IBB's. The band, after much deliberation on a place to host the competition, decided on Pheasant Run Resort, in St. Charles, IL. The band chose that specific space because the entire competition would be held under one roof. In past years, the competition had been held in places where you would have to go outside between venues. The host band is rolling the dice with the weather - basically hoping that the weather would cooperate and attendees would be dry going between buildings. And April weather in Chicago can be beautiful. Or horrible. Pheasant Run fit that bill. There were several conference rooms / small auditoriums for solo and ensemble contests. Plus two large venues for the full band competitions. The band had to borrow percussion and music stands from all over Chicagoland. They even borrowed two trucks to haul said equipment from the Eastern Iowa Brass Band. Planning and running the weekend required everyone in the band, as well as dozens of volunteers.

The competition was held on April 23-24, 1999. Friday was the usual solo and ensemble competitions. This year, only Amy Nelson, John Meling, and Dave Oakley entered. Amy Nelson finished first in the Adult Technical Section, a first for Amy, and IBB.

In previous competitions, Friday evening, after the days events, a concert has been held. This year, IBB decided to host a Welcome Concert. The program included features of each section of the band, and also featured guest soloists (and judge for the weekend) Steve Sykes (tuba), Brett Baker (trombone), and Sarah Holman (vocals). The concert was well received. Recording of several of the selections is below. The following members played the concert:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clark
  Laura Smith
  Amy Nelson
  Mike Ackerman
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Rick Swords
  Jim Swager
   
Third Cornet Paul Hawn
  Bob Sven
   
Flugelhorn Mike Harloff
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Brian Byrne
Bass Trombone Dave Oakley
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Tom Runty
  Ken Norman
   
Eb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Anthony Carmarda
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Carol Cadden

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

1999 IBB NABBA Performance: Brass Presentation

1999 IBB NABBA Performance: Hora Staccato

1999 IBB NABBA Performance: Temptress for Trombones

1999 IBB NABBA Performance:Concerto for Brass

Competition Saturday

On Saturday, a then record 17 bands entered the competition stage, including 5 in the Championship Section. Old nemesis Brass Band of Columbus won with a score of 276, 14 points ahead of the Eastern Iowa Brass Band. That evening, the Chicago Staff Band played at the Gala Concert when the awards were announced. The post competition party was the classiest to date, hosted by Pheasant Run in their Mega Center.

The weekend was a success. It also was an immense amount of work. Looking back, as of November, 1998, IBB didn't have a venue selected, or any equipment lined up. The board, which ran the event, worked hard as a team to plan everything, and execute it. NABBA was so impressed they asked for IBB to document exactly how to run a competition. And NABBA also hosted the competition itself back at Pheasant Run in 2005. And that year also marked a changed in how the competition is run. NABBA took the financial risk of hosting the competition off of member bands and have hosted the competition ever since. A poorly run competition has the potential to financially ruin a member band.

1999 NABBA Results


NABBA 2000, Columbus, OH

 

Winning Ways Return

NABBA 2000 returned to Columbus, OH, home turf for the Brass Band of Columbus. And the two top bands in North America were back duking it out for the top spot. The competition weekend was on April 14-15, 2000 at the Capitol and Palace Theatres in downtown Columbus. The weekend was hosted by All-Star Brass Bands. On Friday, Amy Nelson, Brian Byrne, John Meling, Laura Smith, and Andy Loeffler entered the solo contests. On Saturday, the two heavy weights joined five other bands in the Championship Section. The test piece, Whitsun Wakes (Michael Ball) proved challenging. IBB chose another Philip Sparke test caliber piece, Harmony Music. New for 1999 was NABBA's revised scoring structure. The test piece now accounted for 60% of a band's total score. The remaining portion of the program was now worth 40%. IBB members behind the scenes called the "The IBB Rule" due to the 1998 Contest Music performance.

The judges for the Championship section were Lieutenant Colonel David Deitrick, Richard Holz, and James Anderson. One of the judges even mistakenly referred to the band as BBC during their audio comments. The band wasn't sure how to take that reference. IBB's performance lacked the drama of 1998, and after playing in the coveted final position, IBB finished first again with a score of 286.4. Second was none other than BBC, 4.6 points behind. IBB was victorious again! The celebratory party was again one for the ages.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clark
  Laura Smith
  Amy Nelson
  Mike Ackerman
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
  Bill Hampton
   
Second Cornet Bob Schmelzer
  Jim Swager
   
Third Cornet Paul Hawn
  Bob Sven
   
Flugelhorn Mike Harloff
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Brian Byrne
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Tom Runty
  Ken Norman
   
Eb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Anthony Carmarda
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Kent Beernink
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Ann Bidwell

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2000 IBB NABBA Performance:WhitsunWakes (Ball)

2000 IBB NABBA Performance:Harmony Music (Sparke)

2000 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2001, Washington, DC

 

Back-to-Back Yet Again

NABBA 2001 returned to Washington, DC, for the first time since 1993. The competition was held on April 20-21, 2001, at Fort Myer, Virginia. The weekend was hosted by the United States Army Brass Band. On Friday, Laura Shea-Clark, Amy Nelson, Andy Loeffler, Jim Sobacki, John Meling, Guy Clark, and Mike Harloff entered the Solo competition. And for the first time, the IBB Percussion, playing body percussion, entered the Ensemble Competition. The IBB Percussion finished first and brought home the plaque and the $70 that came with the honor. Their comments are below.

On Saturday, six bands entered the Championship Section. The judges for the Championship Section were Stephen Bulla, Bram Gay, and old IBB friend, Steve Sykes. The test piece was Masters of Space and Time (Broughton). IBB chose Martin Ellerby's test piece Tristen Encounters as their choice piece. Drawing the fourth position, IBB once again bested BBC for the title. IBB's score of 275.8 bested BBC by 5.4 points. The rivalry has been brought back in full force. Little did the membership know that this would be the last NABBA Competition that Colin Holman would conduct IBB.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Colin Holman
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clark
  Laura Shea-Clark
  Amy Nelson
  Mike Harloff
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Jim Swager
  Bob Sven
   
Third Cornet Paul Hawn
  Bob Schmelzer
   
Flugelhorn Mike Harloff
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Brian Byrne
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Tom Runty
  Ken Norman
   
Eb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Anthony Carmarda
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Kent Beernink
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Ann Bidwell
  Teralyn Schwab

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2001 IBB NABBA Performance:Masters of Space and Time (Broughton)

2001 IBB NABBA Performance:Tristen Encounters (Ellerby)

2001 NABBA Results

2001 IBB Percussion Ensembles Comments

 


NABBA 2002, Cincinnati, Ohio

A New Conductor, An Interesting Result

By the time NABBA 2002 ended, IBB had been through a remarkable journey. Effective September 1, 2001, Dr. Colin Holman was no longer the music director of the band. After an exhaustive search, the band hired Peter Lipari as music director. Peter brought an extensive orchestra background to the podium, and was a wonderful conductor. Peter's first time on the competition stage was on April 13, 2002 at the 20th anniversary of NABBA.

The event was hosted by the Cincinnati Brass Band. Eight bands joined IBB in the Championship Section. The test piece was Cambridge Variations, was written by none other than Philip Sparke. IBB has had a run of success playing Sparke in competition. Their choice piece was Montreaux Wind Dances by Carl Rutti. IBB played wonderfully, but so did BBC. The judges of Geoffrey Brand, James Curnow, and Frank Renton (who consistently has scored IBB lower than other judges) listened to all the bands, and for the first, and only time to date, the Championship Section ended in a tie! Both bands scored 281.4. The rules clearly state that in case of a tie in the overall score, the band with the highest test piece scores wins. Both bands also tied in the test piece score. There will be a second tie breaker added immediately for subsequent competitions: the band rated higher on the test piece by 2 of the 3 judges wins. Yet another IBB Rule! The party that night was another one to remember.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Peter Liapri
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Guy Clark
  Laura Shea-Clark
  Amy Nelson
  Mike Ackerman
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Paul Hawn
  Jim Swager
   
Third Cornet Bob Sven
  Bill Hampton
   
Flugelhorn Mike Harloff
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Rick Nelson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Brian Byrne
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Tom Runty
   
Eb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Anthony Carmarda
  Ken Norman
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Kent Beernink
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Teralyn Schwab

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2002 IBB NABBA Performance:Cambridge Variations (Sparke)

2002 IBB NABBA Performance:Montreaux Wind Dances (Rutti)

2002 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2004, Charleston, WV

 

What just happened?

After taking NABBA 2003 off to compete in the British Open (addressed in the Other Competitions page), IBB, under the baton of Peter Lipari, returned to the NABBA competition stage in Charleston, WV. The competition was held on April 16-17, 2004, and was hosted by the Brass Band of the Tri-State and the Mountain State Brass Band. This was the furthest IBB had traveled for NABBA in quite some time. The test piece was Chivalry by Martin Ellerby. The band chose the test piece Blitz by Derek Bourgeois as their choice piece. There were seven bands in the Championship section, and the judging panel of James Anderson, old IBB friend Steve Sykes, and Brian Burditt placed IBB sixth out of the six bands that were scored (Atlantic was disqualified). A new band on the scene, Chicago, directed by none other than Dr. Colin Holman, and including several former IBB members, won by .6 over the Brass Band of Central Florida.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Peter Lipari
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Mike Ackerman
  Jason Flaks
  Shane Deuel
  Kevin Warnke
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Paul Hawn
  Jim Swager
   
Third Cornet Bob Sven
  Dale Nichols
   
Flugelhorn Mike Harloff
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Kay Crowley
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Brian Byrne
Bass Trombone John Smith
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Tom Runty
   
Eb Tuba Anthony Carmarda
  Jeff Lyons
   
Bb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Justin Boeller
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Ann Bidwell

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2004 IBB NABBA Performance:Chivalry (Ellerby)

2004 IBB NABBA Performance:Blitz (Bourgeois)

2004 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2006, Louisville, KY

 

A Change in Directores, and Changes for NABBA

After taking 2005 off, IBB returned to the NABBA Competition stage in 2006 under the baton of Ryan Nelson. Ryan became music director in September, 2005, succeeding Peter Lipari. Ryan brought his extensive band background (from his duties at Northwestern University) to the IBB podium. The competition was held on March 31 - April 1, 2006 in downtown Louisville, KY. The weekend was hosted by the Indiana University Southeast Music Department. The test piece was Of Mountains and Men by Edward Gregson, and IBB chose Harrison's Dream, by Peter Graham, as their choice piece. IBB drew the second performance time, and the judges (Ray Farr, Ronald Waiksnoris, and Lt. Colonel David Deitrick) didn't like what was heard. After all seven bands, IBB finished seventh with a score of 269.8, a mere .2 behind Chicago Brass Band. Old nemesis Brass Band of Columbus would win with a score of 281. Fountain City, a NABBA force for the past 15 or so years, was in third, only .4 behind. This is the start of the changing of the NABBA guard.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Ryan Nelson
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Cindy Salata
  Jason Flaks
  Karen Griffen
  Sandy McCurdy
  Mike Ackerman
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Kevin Warnke
  Paul Hawn
  Jim Swager
   
Third Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Bob Sven
   
Flugelhorn Geoff Richards
   
Tenor Horn Dawn Crowther
  Stan Bouma
  Ken Norman
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Brian Byrne
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Kay Crowley
   
Eb Tuba Justin Boller
  Anthony Carmarda
   
Bb Tuba Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Ann Bidwell

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2006 IBB NABBA Performance:Of Mountains and Men (Gregson)

2006 IBB NABBA Performance:Harrison's Dream (Graham)

2006 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2007, Louisville, KY

 

 

An Encouraging Result

NABBA returned to Louisville, KY again in 2007. The competition was again hosted by Indiana University Southeast Music Department, and it was held on April 13-14, 2007. IBB, along with six other bands entered the Championship Division. This year's test piece was Dances and Alleluias by Philip Sparke. IBB chose Journey into Freedom by Eric Ball as their choice piece. IBB drew the short straw and had to perform first. The judging panel of Bram Gregson, Stephen Bulla, and LTC Tom Palmatier certainly thought highly of IBB, placing them 3rd with a score of 282.0. The next closest band was Brass Band of Central Florida, 2.0 points behind.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Ryan Nelson
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Cindy Salata
  Jason Flaks
  Sandy McCurdy
  Dan Fischer
   
Repiano Cornet Kevin Warnke
   
Second Cornet Geoff Richards
  Mick Garrison
   
Third Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Bob Sven
   
Flugelhorn Ryan Hobbs
   
Tenor Horn Stan Bouma
  Dawn Crowther
  Melody Velleuer
   
Baritone Barb Burtch
  George Foster
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Bob Holland
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Kay Crowley
   
Eb Tuba Justin Boller
  Anthony Carmarda
   
Bb Tuba Kevin Harriman
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Dave Weibers

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2007 IBB NABBA Performance:Dances and Alleluias (Ball)

2007 IBB NABBA Performance:Journey Into Freedom (Sparke)

2007 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2008, Louisville, KY

 

Lousiville, Once Again, with a Change

NABBA, for the third consecutive year, returned to the campus of Indiana Southeast University. The historic Brown Theatre in downtown Louisville also was a performance venue. This year marked another first for NABBA: the Championship Division would break up their performances. The test piece, St. Magnus by Kenneth Downie was performed on Saturday morning. The bands would then return to the competition stage on Saturday night to perform their choice pieces. In this case, IBB chose old friend Jazz by Philip Wilby as their choice piece. Several of the overseas competitions perform this way, and NABBA followed suite. This format, for the Championship Section only, continues to this day. This change in format also helps the host band, since they don't have to arrange for a band to play the Saturday evening Gala Concert, which used to lead up to the awards ceremony. The Championship Section bands now fill that role.

The new format was met with mixed reviews. For one, the Championship Section bands don't have to conserve themselves to play a draining 30 (or so) minute performance. They can go all out for each of the split performances, and recover between. Also, performers also have to go through the associated stresses that lead up to a judged performance, not once, but twice.

There are also two performance draws for the section. One for test piece and one for choice piece. IBB drew fourth for test, and fifth for choice. Not that it mattered, as the judging panel of Stephen Bulla, James Curnow placed IBB in 6th out of 6 bands with a score of 266.9. Fountain City won with a score of 291.0

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Ryan Nelson
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Cindy Salata
  Sandy McCurdy
  Geoff Richards
  Brian Ewing
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Kevin Warnke
   
Third Cornet Bob Sven
   
Flugelhorn Brad Hecker
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Dawn Crowther
  Stan Bouma
   
Baritone Barb Burtch
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Bob Holland
Second Trombone Rob Barnes  
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Kay Crowley
   
Eb Tuba Anthony Carmarda
  Kevin Harriman
   
Bb Tuba Justin Boeller
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Tye Radcliffe
  Chris Riggs

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2008 IBB NABBA Performance:

2008 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2009, Louisville, KY

 

 

Lousiville, One Last Time

For the final time, the NABBA competition returned to Louisville, KY. Indiana University Southeast was the gracious hosts yet again. The competition was held on April 3 - 4. Cyndi Salata captured third place in the High Brass Technical Solo class. IBB once again entered the Championship section, and the split performances were a bit different this year. Friday night the Championship section played the test piece, and Saturday night they performed their choice pieces. Once again, the Saturday night performances became the Gala Concert.

Five bands entered the Championship section for 2009, and the test piece was The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by Derek Bourgeois. New music director Steve Squire's first trip to NABBA was a little rough. IBB drew the dreaded first position for Friday night. Saturday, they were fourth. It didn't really matter as the judging panel of Marshall, Gregson, and Holz gave IBB a score of 246.8, good for 5th place, 19.8 behind Atlantic Brass Band. Fountain City Brass Band won with a score of 283.2.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Steve Heldt
   
Solo Cornet Cindy Salata
  Lev Garber
  Geoff Richards
  Sandy McCurdy
   
Repiano Cornet Matt Sypherd
   
Second Cornet Dan Fisher
  Alex Katernoza
   
Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
  Mick Garrison
   
Flugelhorn Jim Sobacki
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Brad Hecker
  Doug Lim
  John Catomer
   
Baritone Barb Swan-Burtch
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Bob Holland
Second Trombone Rob Barnes  
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  John Meling
   
Eb Tuba Justin Boller
 
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
  Kevin Harriman
   
Percussion Tye Radcliffe
 

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2009 IBB NABBA Performance:

2009 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2011, Grand Rapids, MI

 

North to Grand Rapids

After taking 2010 off, IBB returned to the NABBA competition stage in 2011 with some significant changes. Music Director Steve Squires wasn't on the podium. Due to the economic downturn of the late 2000s, IBB had to sever ties with Steve for the first half of 2011. On the podium was assistant director, Tom Runty. Also, the competition venue was changed. NABBA moved to the Devos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, MI.

IBB entered the Championship Division, and the competition was split yet again. The Friday night test piece was On the Shoulders of Giants by Peter Graham. For Saturday, IBB chose Voyage of Discovery by Goff Richards as their choice piece. The judging panel of Alexander, Ghourlay, and Holz placed IBB finished fourth out of four bands, with a score of 255.80, while incurring a 3 point penalty. Atlantic Brass Band won with a score of 277.0.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Tom Runty
   
Soprano Cornet Steve Heldt
   
Solo Cornet Cindy Salata
  Lev Garber
  Jim Sobacki
   
Repiano Cornet Mike Lipinski
   
Second Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Mike McKenzie
   
Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
  Zhengkui Xie
Flugelhorn Geoff Richards
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Doug Lim
  John Catomer
   
Baritone Mike Taylor
  Matt Billock
   
Solo Trombone Bob Holland
Second Trombone Rob Barnes  
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Barb Burtch
   
Eb Tuba
 
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
 
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
 

 

Listen to IBB's performance:

2011 IBB NABBA Performance: On the Shoulders of Giants (Graham)

2011 IBB NABBA Performance: Voyage of Discovery (Richards)

2011 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2013, Cincinnati, OH

 

 

Back to Cincinnati

NABBA 2013 returned Cincinnati, OH for the first time since 2000. Steve Squires returned to the podium as well, and IBB chose to move down a section, to First. This ended a 16 year run in the Championship section, where IBB claimed six titles. The band felt the move was justified and has enjoyed a successful run to date in First Section.

First Section contained eight bands in 2013. The single performance, as opposed to the split in Championship Section, was more to IBB's liking. The test piece was Four Dances from Checkmate, by Arthur Bliss. IBB chose an old friend, The Essence of Time by Peter Graham. The competition in First Section was tough. The judging panel of DeMeij, Palmatier, and Tizzard placed IBB seventh, with a score of 240.0, two points out of fifth. Five Lakes Silver Band, with former members Tom Gillette and Kay Crowley, won with a score of 282.4.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Lev Garber
  Mike Ackerman
  Eugen Goman
  Brian Ferguson
   
Repiano Cornet Mike Lipinski
   
Second Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Matt Chesner
  Brigid Baker
   
Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
  Zhengkui Xie
  Jim Hatfield
   
Flugelhorn Geoff Richards
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Erin Manning
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Erik Bateman
  Ken Wistrom
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Jeff Curnow  
Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Diana Ponce
   
Eb Tuba Sharon Pearce
  Randy Beschorner
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Steve Foggin
 

 

2013 IBB NABBA Performance: The Essence of Time (Graham)

2013 IBB NABBA Performance: Four Dances from Checkmate (Bliss)

2013 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2014, Grand Rapids, MI

 

An Encouraging Placement

NABBA returned to the Devos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids for the final time in 2014. With 25 bands entered over six sections, this was the most attended NABBA to date.

Six bands entered the First Section, and the test piece for this section was Connotations by Edward Gregson. IBB chose another Philip Sparke piece, Talis Variations as their choice piece. IBB had time to play an overture, Vienna Philharmonic Fanfare, by William Himes. The judging panel was kind to IBB, placing them third with a score of 95.4, only .6 out of second, and 2.0 out of first!

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Mark Ponzo
  Lev Garber
  Mike Ackerman
  Brian Ferguson
   
Repiano Cornet Mike Lipinski
   
Second Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Steve Ware
  Matt Billock
   
Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
  Zhengkui Xie
   
Flugelhorn Geoff Richards
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  John Reschke
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Erik Bateman
  Ken Wistrom
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Jeff Slepak  
Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Diana Ponce
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Eb Tuba Sharon Pearce
  Randy Beschorner
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
  David Grayson
  Mark Hengesh
   
Percussion Joe Beribak
  Marissa Walczak
  Brian Davis
 

 

2014 IBB NABBA Performance: Vienna Philarmonic Fanfare (Himes)

2014 IBB NABBA Performance: Tallis Variations (Sparke)

2014 IBB NABBA Performance: Connotations (Gregson)

2014 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2015, Fort Wayne, IN

 

 

Fort Wayne, here we come!

NABBA began a six-year run at the beautiful Embassy Theater in Fort Wayne, IN. Situated directly across the street, and connected by a sky bridge, from the contest hotel, this became an excellent site to host the competition. The overall competition grew during this six-year run, and the site was no doubt a significant aid in the growth. Melody Velleuer and Doug Lim entered the solo competition.

IBB drew position 2 out of 8. The test piece was Brass Triumphant by Gareth Wood. IBB chose Paganini Variations by Philip Wilby as their choice piece. The judging panel of Bill Himes, Stephen Bulla, and Ron Holz gave IBB an overall score of 266.8, good for fourth place, 5.5 points out of third. Weston Silver Band won with a score of 287.2.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Michael Swope
   
Solo Cornet Lev Garber
  Geoff Richards
  Eugen Goman
  Jim Sobacki
   
Repiano Cornet Mike Ackerman
   
Second Cornet Bob Jones
  Steve Ware
   
Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
  Zhengkui Xie
   
Flugelhorn Brian Ferguson
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Matt Billock
  John Reschke
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Erik Bateman
  Ken Wistrom
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Maddi Srajer  
Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Diana Ponce
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Eb Tuba Sharon Pearce
  Randy Beschorner
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
  Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Joe Beribak
  Steve Foggin
  Brian Davis
 

 

2015 IBB NABBA Performance: Brass Triumphant (Wood)

2015 IBB NABBA Performance: Paganini Variations (Wilby)

2015 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2016, Fort Wayne, IN

 

Not A Good Day

NABBA returned to Fort Wayne in 2016, over the weekend of April 1-2. Historic Embassy Theatre once again hosted the bands. On Friday, the following members entered the solo competition: Monica Benson, Eugen Goman, Melody Velleuer, Rob Barnes, Doug Lim, and Jim Sobacki.

This year, First Section, of which IBB had entered, played in a conference room, not the main theatre, due to a record 33 bands entered. IBB's performance showed. The test piece was The Alchymist's Journal by Kenneth Hesketh. IBB's choice pieces were by their arranger in residence, Andrew Wainwright. They performed both Illuminate and Suite from Stabat Mater. IBB finished seventh out of nine bands with a score of 268.6. Pikes Peak Brass Band won the section with a score of 287.2

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Lev Garber
  Brian Ferguson
  Monica Benson
  Mike Lipinski
   
Repiano Cornet Mike Ackerman
   
Second Cornet Bob Jones
  Glenn Morimoto
   
Third Cornet Eugen Goman
  Carol Dickensone
   
Flugelhorn Geoff Richards
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  John Reschke
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Mike Taylor
  Erik Bateman
  Ken Wistrom
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Maddi Srajer  
Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Diana Ponce
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Eb Tuba Sharon Pearce
  Randy Beschorner
  Mark Weinand
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
  Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Brian Davis
  Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Jamie Hockensmith
  Jamie Giraldo
  Ken Wistrom
 

 

2016 IBB NABBA Performance: Illuminate (Wainwright)

2016 IBB NABBA Performance: Alchymist's Journnal (Hesketh)

2016 IBB NABBA Performance: Suite from Stabat Mater (Wainwright)

2016 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2017, Fort Wayne, IN

 

 

Middle of the Pack

By now, most members of IBB could put their car on autopilot to make the trip to Ft. Wayne. But no one was complaining about the relatively close drive. Every year, NABBA keeps growing. This year, there were again 33 total bands in competition, including a record ten in First Section! On Friday, the following members entered the solo competition: Melody Velleuer, Doug Lim, and Eugen Goman. Bottom Bucket Brass, composed of members of IBB, entered the 10 Piece Ensemble contest.

NABBA had figured out its logistics, and First Section was once again performing in the historic Embassy Theatre. The test piece was Voyage to Worlds Unknown by Peter Graham. IBB chose Fragile Oasis by Peter Meacham as their choice piece. IBB pulled the fourth place on competition order, and the judging panel of Peter Graham, Stephen Bulla, and Ron Holz gave the band an overall score of 272.0, good for sixth place, .2 out of fifth place. Weston Silver Band won with a score of 295.0

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Lev Garber
  Mike Lipinski
  Mike Ackerman
  DJ Alstadt
   
Repiano Cornet Geoff Richards
   
Second Cornet Eugen Goman
  Bob Jones
   
Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
  Monica Benson
   
Flugelhorn Brian Ferguson
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Greg Goeden
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Mike Taylor
  Erik Bateman
  Ken Wistrom
   
Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
Second Trombone Maddi Srajer  
Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Diana Ponce
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Eb Tuba Mark Weinand
  Sharon Pearce
   
Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
  Andy Loeffler
   
Percussion Jami Hockensmith
  Alyssa Schwark
  JW
  Steve Foggin
 

 

2017 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2018, Fort Wayne, IN

 

 

Results Trending Upward

Springtime in Fort Wayne is becoming a trend for NABBA bands, and this is the place to be for brass band musicians. This year, a record 39 bands entered, covering six sections. First Section had a record 13 bands entered! The following members entered the solo competition on Friday: Jami Hockensmith, Brian Ferguson, Eugen Goman, Larry Pearce, Maddi Srajer, Mark Weinand, Mike Taylor, Doug Lim, Jim Sobacki, Melody Velleuer, Glenn Morimoto, and Karen Griffin. And IBB's own 10-piece ensemble, Bottom Bucket Brass, finished third in the 10 Piece Ensemble competition.

The Test Piece was Diversions on a Bass Theme by George Lloyd. IBB chose another old favorite, Chivalry, by Martin Ellerby. IBB played well, and the judging panel gave them a score of 2118.0, good for fifth place. San Antonio Brass Band, new to the NABBA competition arena, won with a score of 294.0

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Brian Ferguson
   
Solo Cornet Lev Garber
  Jim Sobacki
  Mike Ackerman
  Karen Griffin
   
Repiano Cornet Eugen Goman
   
Second Cornet Bob Jones/Geoff Richards
  Glenn Morimoto
   
Third Cornet Alex Katernoza
  Adrian Crisan
  Carol Dickenson
   
Flugelhorn Mike Lipinski
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Matt Billock
  John Reschke
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Erik Bateman
  Ken Wistrom
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Maddi Srajer  
Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Mike Taylor
   
Eb Tuba Mark Weinand
  Sharon Pearce
   
Bb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Jamie Hockensmith
  Alyssa Schwark
  Stephen Lynerd
 

 

2018 IBB NABBA Performance: Diversions on a Bass Theme (LLoyd)

2018 IBB NABBA Performance: Chivalary (Ellerby)

2018 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2019, Fort Wayne, IN

 

 

Close, But yet so Far...

Unbeknownst to all, NABBA returned to Fort Wayne for the final time over the weekend of April 5 - 7, 2019. The number of bands, and the solo and ensemble contest, continued to rise. This year, a record 36 bands, including 6 youth bands, came to town to play for the judges.

IBB was successful in the Friday solo and ensemble contest. IBB's 10-piece ensemble, Bottom Bucket Brass finished first in the 10-Piece Ensemble competition. And Tom Runty finished first in the Senior Baritone/Euphonium Slow Melody class.

The First Section had eight bands play the test piece, Another World's Hell, by Simon Dobson. IBB chose another Philip Sparke favorite, Harmony Music. IBB played wonderfully and ended second with a score of 277.6, .4 behind winner Dublin Silver. IBB had a timing penalty that would've placed them in first. By far, this was the band's best finish in years.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Lev Garber
   
Solo Cornet Brian Ferguson
  Sam Litt
  Ry Muehling
  Eugen Goman
   
Repiano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Second Cornet Mike Lipinski
  Alex Katernoza
   
Third Cornet Kim McShane
  Dana Young
   
Flugelhorn Karen Griffin
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Doug Lim
  Carol Dickenson
  Chris Tutza
   
Baritone Randy Beschorner
  Erik Bateman
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Tenor Trombones Rob Barnes
  Maddi Srajer  
  Peter Deal  
Bass Trombone Jeff Banyots
   
Euphonium Tom Runty
  Mike Taylor
   
Eb Tuba Terell Pierce
  Andy Rollins
   
Bb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Alyssa Schwark
  Lisa-Ann Barnes
  John Mark Clevenger
  Melanie Eaton
 

 

2019 IBB NABBA Performance: Another World's Hell (Dobson)

2019 IBB NABBA Performance: Harmony Music (Sparke)

2019 NABBA Results

 


NABBA 2022, Huntsville, AL

 

 

Good to be back at NABBA

After the longest NABBA break in IBB's rich history, due to the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic, IBB returned to the competition stage, along with 29 other bands in 8 sections. This year, the competition was held at the beautiful Von Braun Center in Huntsville, AL on April 29 - 30. There were still some Covid restrictions during this time. Bands had to show proof of vaccination, and contest site was large enough to allow the bands to socially distance themselves. This helped the competition run quite smoothly.

On Friday, Karen Griffin (cornet), Mike Taylor (euphonium), Doug Lim (tenor horn), and Melody Velleuer (tenor horn) entered the solo competition, with Karen finishing second in her class, Senior High Brass Slow Melody.

There were seven bands entered in Saturday's First Section. IBB drew the third position. The test piece was Facets of the Heart by Tom Davoren. IBB's choice piece had some history with the band. They chose Elgar Variations by Martin Ellerby, mostly because it was the choice piece they were preparing upon the abrupt shut down of IBB, and virtually every thing else, in March, 2020, due to the outbreak of Covid-19. IBB performed quite well, but the judges didn't quite agree, placing them 7th out of 7.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Lev Garber
   
Solo Cornet Brian Ferguson
  Geoff Richards
  Ry Muehling
  Mike Ackerman
   
Repiano Cornet Karen Griffin
   
Second Cornet Jim Sobacki
  Catherine Kapocius
   
Third Cornet Mike Lipinski
  Dana Young
Flugelhorn Kim Muehling
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Carol Dickenson
  Doug Lim
   
Baritone Paul Eakley
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Solo Trombone Maddi Srajer
Second Trombone Chris Tutza
Bass Trombone Ryan Ringnalda
   
Euphonium Mike Taylor
  Erik Bateman
   
Eb Tuba Rob Barnes
  Andy Rollins
   
Bb Tuba Daniel Bethel
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Alyssa Schwark
  Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Eric Johnson
  Eric Henderson
 

 

2022 IBB NABBA Performance: Facets of the Heart (Davoren)

2022 IBB NABBA Performance: Elgar Variations (Ellerby)

 


NABBA 2023, Huntsville, AL

 

 

Sweet Home, Alabama

IBB headed south again for NABBA 2023. The competiton was once again held an the beautiful Von Braun Center in Huntsville, AL on April 21 - 22. Covid was still in play, as IBB president Bill Kaempfe tested positive the day before the band was supposed to leave.

On Friday, Karen Griffin (cornet), Mike Taylor (euphonium), and Rob Barnes (trombone), entered the solo competition, with Karen finishing first in her class, Senior High Brass Slow Melody.

There was a change for First (and Second) Section bands this year. The bands were split, with the Test Piece being performed Friday. On Saturday, the bands performed their choice pieces. There were nine bands entered in First Section. For Friday, IBB drew the fourth position. The test piece was "The Year of the Dragon" by Philip Sparke. IBB played well, or thought they did. The finished 9th in that portion. On Saturday, IBB drew the dreaded first position, and they chose to play another Sparke piece, Music of the Spheres. To quote judge Jessica Sneeringer "You just played the snot out of Music of the Spheres!" All three judges apparently agreed, because IBB finished second in the Choice Piece category. Overall, they finished sixth, six points behind winner, Princeton Brass Band.

The band came home with a lovely parting gift, about eight additional cases of Covid-19.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Lev Garber
   
Solo Cornet Brian Ferguson
  Ry Muehling
  Mike Lipinski
  Karen Griffin
  Alyson Bauman
   
Repiano Cornet Mike Ackerman
   
Second Cornet Jim Sobacki
  Catherine Kapocius
   
Third Cornet Eugen Goman
  Dana Antosz
   
Flugelhorn Kim Muehling
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Chris Tutza
  Doug Lim
  Carol Dickenson
   
Baritone Erik Bateman
  Paul Eakley
   
Solo Trombone Maddi Srajer
Second Trombone Ed Gadberry
Bass Trombone Armando Mejia
   
Euphonium Mike Taylor
  Sara Ferguson
   
Eb Tuba Rob Barnes
  Andy Rollins
   
Bb Tuba Daniel Bethel
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Alyssa Schwark
  Alfred Fajardo
  Alan Frye
 

 

 

 

 


NABBA 2024, Huntsville, AL

 

 

Last Time in Alabama

IBB once again made the trek south for NABBA 2024. This appears to be the last time that the beautiful Von Braun Center in Huntsville, AL. The competition was held on April 5 - 6. Next year, the competiton returns to Fort Wayne, IN.

On Friday, Eugen Goman (cornet), Doug Lim (tenor horn), and Rob Barnes (bass trombone), entered the solo competition.

Again this year, the bands were split, with the Test Piece being performed Friday. On Saturday, the bands performed their choice pieces. There were seven bands entered in First Section. For Friday, IBB drew the coveted seventh position. The test piece was "St. Jame's - A New Beginning" by Philip Harper. This is a new comission - it was commissioned as the first section test piece for the 2023 National Finals of the British Brass Band Championships. IBB finished in 6th place in that portion. On Saturday, IBB drew the fifth position, and they chose to play a world premiere. IBB commissioned their Artistic Advisor, Andrew Wainwright, to write a piece for the competition. The result was, "Gothique Fantasy (on a theme by Boellmann)". This piece was inspired by the 2019 tragic fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and the multi-year rebuild of this historic church. The judges were mixed with this performance, with one judge placing them 3rd, and 4th overall on this portion. Overall, they finished sixth, 4.5 points behind winner, San Fransisco Brass Band.

The band band was so pleased with Gothique Fantasy that they invited Andrew Wainwright into the band photo.

The band's performance and full score breakdown is below.

The band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Steve Squires
   
Soprano Cornet Lev Garber (test)
  Jim Sobacki (choice)
   
Solo Cornet Ry Muehling
  Mike Ackerman
  Eugen Goman
  Mike Lipinski
   
Repiano Cornet Alyson Bauman
   
Second Cornet Abby Fledderman
  Dana Antosz
   
Third Cornet Lev Garber (choice)
  Jim Sobacki (test)
  Catherine Kapocius
   
Flugelhorn Kim Muehling
   
Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
  Chris Tutza
  Doug Lim
  Carol Dickenson
   
Baritone Paul Eakley
  Matt Kaempfe
   
Solo Trombone Maddi Srajer
Second Trombone Ed Gadberry
Bass Trombone Rob Barnes
   
Euphonium Mike Taylor
  Erik Bateman
   
Eb Tuba Chris Miller
  Andy Rollins
   
Bb Tuba Daniel Bethel
  Bill Kaempfe
   
Percussion Alyssa Taylor
  Doug Adams
  Alan Frye
 

 

 

 

 


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Other Competitions

2003 British Open

 

After successfully completing their second "three-peat" in 2002, IBB needed somewhere to compete in 2003. Remember, NABBA rules state that once you win three consecutive years, you have to move up a class, or sit out. After their first "three-peat", IBB hosted the NABBA competition in 1999.

NABBA had thought ahead and had a plan for IBB. They arranged for the band to compete at the prestigious British Open Brass Band Championships. This competition is a test piece only format, no choice piece. IBB would be the first band from outside the British Commonwealth to compete at this event. The event was held on Saturday, September 13, at Symphony Hall in Birmingham.

The band spent the entire summer preparing for the competition. Sectionals and extra rehearsals were held, all during a typical IBB summer concert season. The band boarded a British Airways flight three nights before the competition. Once they landed, they had two days to get acclimated, do some sightseeing, and have two final rehearsals.

Brass Band World even did a feature on the band (photo above).

Of the 18 bands in competition, IBB drew the 15th spot. This gave the band plenty of opportunities to hear some of the best bands in the world play the test piece, Venus and Jupiter from The Planets Suite, arranged by Stephen Roberts. IBB played the pieces as wonderfully, and they had represented NABBA well. They placed 16th. Yorkshire Building Society, Whitburn and Black Dyke took home the top three positions, all top bands in the world.

The Band consisted of the following performers:

Conductor Peter Lipari
   
Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
   
Solo Cornet Mike Ackerman
  Jason Flaks
  Shane Deuel
  Kevin Warnke
   
Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
   
Second Cornet Paul Hawn
  Dale Nichols
   
Third Cornet James Keen
  Bob Sven
   
Flugelhorn Jim Swager
   
Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
  Stan Bouma
  Kay Crowley
  Carol Dickenson
   
Baritone Barb Swan
  George Foster
   
Solo Trombone Brian Byrne
Second Trombone Rob Barnes
Bass Trombone John Smith
   
Euphonium John Meling
  Tom Runty
   
Eb Tuba Andy Loeffler
  Anthony Carmarda
   
Bb Tuba Jeff Lyons
  Justin Boeller
   
Percussion Lisa-Ann Barnes
  Tye Radcliffe
  Ann Bidwell
 

But That's Not All...

IBB didn't simply compete on Saturday, then board a plane home. During 2003, Birmingham Symphony Hall hosted a Brass on Sunday series. They scheduled IBB to appear on September 14, the day following the British Open. IBB was able to perform a full concert in the beautiful Symphony Hall. They were joined by four other bands that had competed on Sunday.

Their poster advertising the concert did have a minor spelling error (note the spelling of Illinois):


US Open Brass Band Championships

Prairie Brass Band, a band from the Chicago Suburbs that started in the mid 1990's, planned on hosting an entertainment type competition. They modeled it after similar competitions in the United Kingdom. No test piece is required, instead, each band will perform a 25 minute program of their own choice. The competition is held in the fall, so it doesn't interfere and or compete with NABBA preparations.

The US Open premiered in 2003, and IBB has performed several times over the years. The competition has several different award categories, most entertaining band, best featured brass soloist, best performance of a march, best new composition or arrangement, and winning buskers. Buskers is modeled after street performers, basically playing for tips, with your case open.

Judging has both a Music and Entertainment caption.

2003 US Open

IBB competed in the inaugural US Open on November 8, 2003 at John Hersey High School, in Arlington Heights. There were 6 bands registered. IBB drew the coveted 6th position. and finished third overall with a total score of 211.

IBB's program consisted of:

  • Also Sprach Sarathrusata (Strauss, arr. van der Woude)
  • Bohemian Rhapsody (Mercury, arr. Berry)
  • Cross of Honour (Rimmer)
  • Hello Dolly (Herman, arr. Norman)
  • Arunjuez Con Tu Amor Rodrigo (arr. Norman)
  • River Dance (Whelan, arr. Farr)
  • Fodens Richardson band, over from England, won with a score of 234.


    2004 US Open

    The 2004 US Open moved to St. Viator High School in Arlington Heights. The event was held on November 6. Once again six bands entered. IBB drew the third spot, and finished with a score of 192. That was good for 6th place. Brass Band of Central Florida won with a score of 250.

    IBB's program consisted of:

  • Brass Rush (World Premier performance) (Thomas)
  • Knight Templar (Allan)
  • Sarabande (from "Monument for Brass) (Roberts)
  • Brilliante, featuring John Meling and Tom Runty, euphonium (Graham)
  • Russlan and Ludmilla Overture (Glinka, arr. Snell)
  • The Band consisted of the following performers:

    Conductor Peter Lipari
       
    Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
       
    Solo Cornet Jason Flaks
      Karen Grifin
      Sandy McCurdy
      Kevin Warnke
       
    Repiano Cornet Mick Garrison
       
    Second Cornet Paul Hawn
      Jim Swager
       
    Third Cornet Bob Sven
       
    Flugelhorn
       
    Tenor Horn Phil Klickman
      Stan Bouma
      Darrell
       
    Baritone Barb Burtch
      George Foster
       
    Solo Trombone Brian Byrne
    Second Trombone Ken Norman
    Bass Trombone John Smith
       
    Euphonium Tom Runty
      Kay Crowley
       
    Eb Tuba Anthony Carmarda
      Jeff Lyons
     
       
    Bb Tuba Andy Loeffler
      Justin Boeller
      Bill Kaempfe
       
    Percussion Vyvian Lawrence
      Jim Holland
     
     

    2007 US Open

    After a break, IBB returned to the US Open on November 10, 2007. The competition was again held at St. Viator High School, in Arlington Heights. Eight bands were in competition, with IBB drawing position 2. They ended up with a score of 302, good for 6th place. Fountain City Brass Band won with a score of 361.


    2012 US Open

    IBB returned to the US Open competition stage on November 3, 2012. The venue had moved to the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles. Eight bands entered in 2012. IBB pulled the 2nd position. IBB finished with a score of 204 points, good for sixth place. Fountain City Brass Band won with a score of 237.

    The band consisted of the following performers:

    Conductor Steve Squires
       
    Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
       
    Solo Cornet Lev Garber
      Brian Ferguson
      Bob Jones
     
       
    Repiano Cornet Mike Ackerman
       
    Second Cornet Alex Katernoza
      Carol Dickenson
       
    Third Cornet Zhengui Xie
      Jim Hatfield
       
    Flugelhorn Geoff Richards
       
    Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
      Doug Lim
     
       
    Baritone Eric Bateman
      Ken Wistrom
      Randy Beschorner
       
    Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
    Second Trombone Jeff Curnow
    Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
       
    Euphonium Tom Runty
      Diana Ponce
       
    Eb Tuba Justin Boller
      Sharon Pearce
     
       
    Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
     
       
    Percussion Brian Davis
      Steve Mangone
     
     

    2013 US Open

    IBB's final appearance in the US Open came on November 2, 2013, once again at the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles. Seven bands were in competition, and IBB drew the fourth position. The band finished with a score of 207, good for seventh place. Once again Fountain City Brass Band won with a score of 239.

    IBB's program consisted of:

  • Vienna Philharmonic Fanfare (Strauss, arr. Himes)
  • Irish Tune from County Derry (Grainger, arr. Wright)
  • Napoli featuring Mark Ponzo, cornet (Bellstedt, arr. Brand)
  • Valdres March (Hanssen, arr. Moller)
  • Ritual Fire Dance (de Falla, arr. Street)
  • An American in Paris (Gershwin, arr. Snell)
  • The band consisted of the following performers:

    Conductor Steve Squires
       
    Soprano Cornet Jim Sobacki
       
    Solo Cornet Mark Ponzo
      Lev Garber
      Mike Ackerman
      Brian Ferguson
       
    Repiano Cornet Mike Lipinski
       
    Second Cornet Alex Katernoza
      Steve Ware
      Matt Billock
       
    Third Cornet Carol Dickenson
      Zhengui Xie
      Jim Hatfield
       
    Flugelhorn Eugen Goman
       
    Tenor Horn Melody Velleuer
      Erin Manning
      Doug Lim
      John Reschke
       
    Baritone Eric Bateman
      Ken Wistrom
       
    Solo Trombone Rob Barnes
    Second Trombone Art Linsner
    Bass Trombone Larry Pearce
       
    Euphonium Tom Runty
      Diana Ponce
      Matt Kaempfe
       
    Eb Tuba Sharon Pearce
      Randy Beschorner
     
       
    Bb Tuba Bill Kaempfe
      Mark Hengesh
       
    Percussion
     
     

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    Other Events

    1998 Midwest Tour

    In June of 1998, IBB took off on a tour of the Midwest. Stops included Illinois State University, Hannibal, Missouri, and Peoria, Illinois. IBB was the guest of NABBA controller Ron Holz in Hannibal.


    Artbeat Chicago

    Before the 2000 NABBA Championships, Artbeat Chicago (a local PBS show) did a segment on the band. Enjoy, and remember what Paul Hawn said, "there really is no money in it."


    UK2K

    In the Summer of 2000, IBB made their first trip overseas, to England. Cleverly nicknamed UK2K, IBB performed over 10 schools concerts and in the famed Whit Friday march competition, placing 43rd out of 66 bands. The trip was the brainchild of Colin Holman, as he wanted to take the band to his homeland.


    15th Anniversary Concert

    IBB held our first celebration concert in 2003, marking our 15th year. The concert was held on March 15th at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Libertyville. Trombonist Brett Baker of the world famous Black Dyke Mills Band was the featured soloist. Both of his pieces, Teddy Trombone, and Homelands later appeared on our recording "Live and Kickin'". Former music directors Dr. Bruce Briney and Dr. Colin Holman were back to guest conduct.


    25th Anniversary Concert

    On June 11, 2016, IBB held a celebration of their history, with their 25th anniversary concert. Held at our rehearsal home, First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, the concert was a celebration of our existence. The Illinois House even declared June 11 "Illinois Brass Band Day" in the state of Illinois. Representatives Steve Anderson and David Harris were on hand to present the proclamation.

    All former conductors were on hand to guest direct, Dr. Bruce Briney, Dr. Colin Holman, Peter Lipari, and Ryan Nelson. The concert was well received and the post concert reception was post NABBA quality.

    Map of IBB concerts in the greater Chicago Area to date

    Map of all IBB concerts to date, England not included


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    Podcasts

    The Spoken History of IBB

    Please enjoy the following interviews with key members of IBB's rich history. More episodes coming!

    Episode 1: George Foster, Co-Founder, Baritone. Listen here

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    Guest Conductors

    Michael Mulcahy

    Chicago Symphony Orchestra trombonist Michael Mulcahy was an early guest conductor of IBB. He conducted one rehearsal and a concert in 1995. The rehearsal was located in an odd location - in a Libertyville Park District meeting room. The rehearsal was long and intense. Michael worked the band on their NABBA program, and at 10:15 PM, he asked the band: "Do you take a break about now?" Normal rehearsal time ended at 9:45. It was a great experience.


    Steve Squires

    IBB Music Director Steve Squires served as a guest conductor several times in the early years of IBB. Steve conducted several high profile concerts, including IBB's first appearance at the Illinois Music Educators Convention, in Peoria, in 2000. Steve also conducted several Summer concerts in the early 2000s subbing for Dr. Colin Holman. IBB obviously appreciated him, as he has been the music director since 2008.


    Dr. Peter Griffin

    Dr. Griffin has been a frequent guest conductor of IBB, most famously playing the roll of John Philips Sousa in a traditional Sousa Concert held in 2016. The concert was similar to how the Sousa Band would perform, almost non-stop music, with march excerpts in between the full length pieces. The concert was a "barn burner" and the band was exhausted afterwards.


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    Guest Performers

    The Following Performers have appeared with IBB

  • Brett Baker, Trombone
  • Paul Bennet, Tenor Horn
  • Bob and Nick Childs, AKA The Childs Brothers, Euphonium(s)
  • Steven Mead, Euphonium
  • Michael Mulcahey, Trombone
  • Steve Sykes, Tuba
  • David Thornton, Euphonium
  • Roger Webster, Cornet
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    In Memoriam

    The following former members of IBB are no longer with us:

  • Jeff Curnow, tenor trombone, Bb bass
  • Steve Foggin, percussion
  • Ron Grundberg, euphonium
  • Bill Homer, Founder, tenor horn
  • Bob Jones, cornet
  • John Meling, euphonium
  • Ken Norman, euphonium, Eb Bass, music arranger
  • Dr. Bob Sven, cornet
  • Hank Tausend, percussion
  • Steve Ware, cornet
  • Kevin Warnke, cornet, Santa Claus
  • Hank Wintczak, tenor trombone
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    How Can You Help?

    We are missing some content

    Thanks for reading this far. It has been a pleasure putting the history of this wonderful organization together. But it isn't complete

    If you have anything to submit, please email it to us. Thanks, and we'll be sure to give you credit.

    We are in need of the following content

  • UK2K photos: Do you have any from the Whit Friday Contest, or any of the Schools concert? Does any audio exist?
  • NABBA '93: Audio recordings (does one exist?), and roster help.
  • NABBA '94: Program.
  • NABBA '08: Audio recordings.
  • NABBA '09: Audio recordings.
  • NABBA '16: Band photo.
  • Any roster changes / additions we've missed.
  • Anything else you might have that would be a good addition.
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    Credits

    The following people have contributed to this project:

  • Bill Kaempfe - NABBA and US Open images
  • Doug Lim - NABBA images
  • Rob Barnes - webmaster, text, images, recordings, podcast host
  • Mick Garrison - images
  • Bruce Briney - concert recordings
  • Bob Schmelzer - concert recordings
  • Mike Taylor - audio engineering
  • Diane Barnes - audio equipment
  • All music credits - Illinois Brass Band
  • NABBAPics.com - NABBA images
  • HTML5Up.net - website template
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    Say Hello.