The Wheaton Municipal Band Recieves Top Honor

The Wheaton Municipal Band is headed to the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Convention this December at McCormick Place in Chicago. This 71-year-old international event brings approximately 17,000 musicians from around the world and across the United States. The Wheaton Municipal Band had to go through a rigorous audition process to be selected to perform. According to Music Director, Dr. Bruce Moss, "The band applications this year were the strongest they have been in many years, making our invitation that much more elite. There were over 200 applications to perform at this year's conference. Less than 20% are selected to perform."

The WMB did perform at the conference in 2012. There was a 5-year waiting period to re-apply. Band Manager, Steve Klaus says, "This honor for the band is second to none, simply put. To be distinguished as one of the finest bands in the world not only once, but twice, in the shortest possible eligibility time frame, is astounding. Very few other musical organizations can boast of this honor."

The WMB currently plans to holds audition for the 2017 season on Sundays May 21 and May 28. Audition information and time requests can be found on the band's website at http://www.wheatonmunicipalband.org. The rigorous audition process requires sight-reading and playing a short prepared piece. Competition is fierce and the band always presents a top-notch professional sound. Some of the Wheaton Municipal Band alumni include performers in the Chicago Symphony and the "President's Own Marine Band." This years WMB members will be eligible to perform at the Midwest Convention's performance.

For more information go to the Band's website at http://www.wheatonmunicipalband.org.