Frequently Asked Questions

The band fee is used for several things. It helps to cover the cost of the clinicians that are employed during band camp and throughout the year. It also covers the cost of band T-shirts that are used throughout the year and the black gloves that are a required part of the marching uniform. In addition, a portion of the fee is used for meals that are provided during marching competitions. Because the fee is budgeted and (largely) spent before band camp even begins, it is nonrefundable.

Donald Caneva served as the first band director at John Hersey High School and remained in that role for ten years. During that tenure, the Hersey band gained national recognition, performing at the Tournament of Roses parade, the Cotton Bowl and the Orange Bowl, to name a few. In 2001 the Caneva scholarship was established in his honor to help promote musical growth to the Hersey band student(s) who have shown promise. The scholarship is provided to a freshman or sophomore class member for the purpose of attending a summer music camp of his/her choice.

In the late spring newsletter, a volunteer form is sent out with the HIA newsletter. The form includes pre-planned volunteer activities for the following school year. You can complete this form and submit it with your child to the band room, or via mail to the address provided on the form.

The Illinois Superstate Concert Band Festival or “Superstate” is an event sponsored by the University of Illinois Bands and the School of Music. Twenty four outstanding middle, junior and senior high school bands from across the state are selected for the festival by a judging panel of band directors not affiliated with the University. Bands are selected based on audition tapes. The event normally takes place in early May at the Urbana campus of the University of Illinois and, if selected, the Hersey Symphonic Band performs.