September 29, 2026
School of Music hosts high school music students for SIU Brass, Woodwind Day, Oct. 1
CARBONDALE, Ill. — More than 300 high school musicians from throughout the region will gather at Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Thursday, Oct. 1, for Brass and Woodwind Day. Hosted by SIU’s School of Music, the event will give students the chance to develop their skills and explore the nuances of brass and woodwind performance.
While on campus, students participate in instrument-specific masterclasses with School of Music faculty and students, and large ensemble rehearsals with Elias Gillespie, assistant lecturer and director of bands. The masterclass and ensemble sessions begin at 9 a.m. in Altgeld Hall.
Students will also learn about careers in music and opportunities for music study at the collegiate level, and they’ll have a chance to network and ask questions during a Q&A session with School of Music faculty and current students.
The day concludes with a brass and woodwind showcase concert featuring SIU faculty, graduate and undergraduate students. The concert begins at 1:15 p.m. in Shryock Auditorium.
Media availability
Reporters, photographers and camera crews are welcome to cover Brass and Woodwind Day activities. For more information or assistance in arranging interviews, contact Brittainy Spears, assistant lecturer and music education coordinator, at brittainy.spears@siu.edu or the School of Music at 618-536-8742.
Participating high schools include:
- Anna-Jonesboro Community High School.
- Benton Consolidated High School.
- Carbondale Community High School.
- Carterville High School.
- Du Quoin High School.
- Eldorado High School.
- Frankfort Community High School, West Frankfort, Illinois.
- Goreville High School.
- Herrin High School.
- Marion High School.
- McCracken County High School, Paducah, Kentucky.
- Pinckneyville High School.
- Vienna High School.
- Waterloo High School.
For additional information. contact the SIU School of Music at 618-536-8742 or music@siu.edu.