Introduction to the Marshall University High School Honor Band Festival

The Marshall University High School Honor Band Festival is an event designed to recognize the achievements of exceptional high school musicians. It provides an opportunity for these students to work with renowned guest conductors from around the country and interact with the faculty at Marshall University.

Festival Details

• Date: The festival will be held from February 18-20, 2026.
• Nomination Period: The nomination period opens in mid-November.
• Cost: The cost for this event is $60 per student, covering the cost of clinicians, music, materials, a festival t-shirt, and a certificate.
• Nominations: Nominations are due by Friday, January 9th. Results will be provided to directors on Wednesday, January 14th.

The Clinicians

Wind Symphony

• Conductor: Mr. Kevin Welborn, Associate Director of Bands at The University of Alabama.

Symphonic Band

• Conductor: Dr. Ingrid Larragoity, CEO of El Sistema, Colorado.

Concert Band

• Conductor: Dr. Adam Wilke, Director of Bands at James Logan High School.

Registration Process

1. Nomination: Students are nominated by their director for the Honor Band Festival.
2. Results: Results are provided to directors, and students are accepted based on the recommendation of their director and the instrumentation needs of the ensembles.
3. Video Audition: For consideration in the Wind Symphony, students must submit a video audition by Friday, January 23rd, including 2 major scales and a short excerpt demonstrating their ability.

Audition Materials and Process

• Audition Requirements: 2 major scales and a short excerpt of 45-60 seconds.
• Percussion Students: Should submit videos for keyboard mallets and snare.
• Submission: Audition videos are submitted online.
• Results: Results are emailed and posted by or before Monday, February 2nd.

Tentative Honor Band Itinerary

Wednesday

• 1:00 PM: Check-in
• 2:30 PM: Required meeting with all students
• 3:00 PM: Concert
• 4:00 PM: Move to rehearsal area
• 4:15 PM: Rehearsals begin

Thursday

• 9:00 AM: Rehearsal begins
• 12:15 PM: Lunch
• Afternoon: Masterclasses, clinician workshops, and rehearsals

Friday

• 9:00 AM: Rehearsal
• 10:00 AM: Presentation/Discussion
• 12:00 PM: Lunch
• 1:30 PM: Rehearsal
• 3:30 PM: Rehearsal ends
• 4:00 PM: Hall opens
• 4:30 PM: Honor Band Concert begins

Additional Information

Marshall School of Music or Athletic Band Auditions

• Opportunity to audition for scholarships, entrance into the MU School of Music, and/or tuition waivers for Marching Thunder participation.

Honor Band Sweatshirts

• Available for purchase at $35 each.

Concert Attire

• Concert black or black & white attire required for the performance.

Meals

• Campus dining facilities will be open, and students may also eat off-campus.

Hotels

• Various hotels are available in the Huntington/Barboursville/Ashland area for housing during the festival.

Parking

• Instructions provided for bus and car parking.

Support and Events

Support the Marching Thunder

• Information on how to support the Marching Thunder.

Wind Band Concert Series

• Schedule of upcoming concerts, including the Wind Symphony Concert.

Marching Thunder Events

• Schedule of performances, including home games and championships.

Marshall University

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Overview:

Marshall University is a public research university located in Huntington, West Virginia. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and professional degrees. The university is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to community outreach.

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Services Offered:

Admissions:

The university offers admissions services for first-year freshmen, transfer students, international undergraduate students, graduate students, international graduate students, and online students.

Financial Aid:

Marshall University provides financial aid options including tuition assistance, scholarships, and grants.

Student Resources:

Students have access to various resources such as residence halls, student affairs, student health services, and student policies.

Campus Resources:

The university offers libraries, online research tools, internship and career development services, and a campus bookstore.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Student Organizations:

Students can participate in various clubs, organizations, student government, Greek life, and athletics.

Student Activities:

The university offers opportunities for community service, leadership development, and campus recreation.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

Marshall University boasts a variety of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a lively campus environment with numerous student organizations, activities, and events.

Community Engagement:

Marshall University is deeply involved in the local community through outreach programs and initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various colleges and schools.

Graduate:

Marshall University provides graduate programs in various fields, including medicine and pharmacy.

Online:

The university offers online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

Professional:

Marshall University offers professional programs designed to enhance career skills and knowledge.