OUTSTANDING BANDS FEATURED IN 2009 Chicago Brass Band Friday, July 17, 7:15 p.m. The Chicago Brass Band, conducted by Dr. Colin Holman strives to become a world-class brass band in the British tradition, but not bound by that tradition, and to reflect the American musical culture of which it is a part. The band was formed in September of 2002 and has already been recognized nationally and internationally for its excellence and creativity. Its motto is "British Tradition--Chicago Style." Grand Avenue Big Band Friday, July 18, 8:30 p.m. The twenty-piece Grand Avenue Big Band under the direction of Nick Desmond is Chicagoland's only big band featuring their Andrews Sisters style vocal trio: Strictly Uptown. Since 1992, the band has entertained at hundreds of events playing the hits of the 1940s. In November of 1995, at the close of the 50th anniversary events for WWII, Grand Avenue proudly opened for the Glenn Miller Orchestra in Quincy, IL. With 5 saxophones, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, 4 piece rhythm section, a female vocal trio and 2 male vocalists, Grand Avenue has been called-and they truly are- "a DJ’s worst nightmare."

Fox Valley Concert Band Saturday, July 18, 6:00 p.m. The Fox Valley Concert Band is currently celebrating the 26th anniversary since its founding in St. Charles, Illinois. Currently under the direction of Dr. Colin Holman, the FVCB is a not-for-profit, all-volunteer band comprised of 75 members from many communities in the Fox Valley and the western suburbs of Chicago. The band's two-fold mission is to provide its audiences with free, quality concert band music year-round and to provide an opportunity for its members to exercise their musical talents. The band gives three indoor concerts each year during the school calendar, usually at its home in Geneva Community High School in Geneva, Illinois. It also plays six to eight outdoor concerts each summer.

Joliet American Legion Band
Saturday, July 18, 7:15 p.m.
The Joliet American Legion Band is an award-winning, non-profit organization dedicated to providing an excellent musical experience for loyal audiences since 1946. Comprised of veterans, professionals, senior citizens, students and more, the band carries a unique sound similar to the precise disciplined tradition of John Philip Sousa. The Joliet American Legion Band performs a variety of music ranging from patriotic marches, show tunes, classical selections, and contemporary pieces, and can be heard year-round in local parades, concerts, as well as national competitions. Nationally, the band has performed for seven U.S. presidents and has been awarded an unprecedented 38 National and 52 State titles. However, the Joliet area and surrounding communities continue to be the heartbeat of the organization, performing in over 20 concerts or parades each year.

Navy Band Great Lakes Saturday, July 18, 8:30 p.m. Formed by Lieutenant Commander John Phillip Sousa, USNR, in 1917, the Navy Band Great Lakes performs throughout the Midwest region from Michigan to North Dakota. The members have always been grateful for having the opportunity to make music for America during its history. Dedicated to music, the United States Navy and the nation, the Navy Band Great Lakes supports the sailors of the Navy's largest and finest training center at the Naval Station Great Lakes and the Navy's recruiting mission first. But the band always finds time to perform in its larger Midwest community to celebrate America with its audiences.