For many years the University of Illinois Band has been called the
“largest, finest college band in the world.” 360 to 380 members are on
its rolls. It consists of three organizations: the concert band and
the first and second regimental bands. The highest ranking unit is the
concert band of from 115 to 125 pieces. Membership in the three bands
is based on the student’s proficiency.
The Illinois University Band is used by the entire University, playing
for all special occasions, commencement and other events. The football
marching band is made up of the concert band, the first regimental band
and at times it is aided by some members of the second. Frequently the
band plays over local radio stations.
The football marching band is made up of the concert band and the first
regimental group, two-hundred or more bandsmen. It makes an impressive
appearance in the brilliant orange and blue uniforms, every instrument
held in proper position and every movement in perfect unison.
A picturesque figure precedes the great band. One of the men
representing Chief Illiniwek, the symbol of the fighting Illini,
dressed in the traditional Sioux Indian costume, does an Indian dance
down the field in front of the band.