Downers Grove North High School Bands

Winter Spirit Assembly

2012-02-10T17:47:00.000-06:00

DGN Band Ensemble Photos - 2011-2012

2012-02-08T20:17:00.000-06:00

Wind Ensemble

Symphonic Band

Concert Band

Fans Cheer Winter Guard

2012-02-04T06:19:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the DGN Winter Guard for a terrific halftime performance at last night's Varsity Basketball game!

Pep Band Joined By Class of 2016

2012-02-04T06:15:00.001-06:00

The DGN Pep Band was joined by a dozen current 8th grade band students last night who volunteered to play for the Varsity basketball game. The band played and cheered on the Trojans as they battled Proviso West in an exciting contest that featured multiple lead changes.

Thanks to all the 8th graders who sat in with us last night. You sounded great!

"Hey Everybody! NIU's In Town!!"

2012-02-02T22:04:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to all of the DGN & DGS jazz musicians who joined forces with the internationally acclaimed NIU Jazz Ensemble for an amazing night of music!

NIU Jazz Clinic & Concert with Steve Davis

2012-02-02T17:02:00.001-06:00

District 99 welcomed the NIU Jazz Ensemble - and guest artist Steve Davis - to campus today for a series of educational workshops. After last year's early February "SnowPocalypse" cancelled the annual NIU Jazz Night in District 99, our community is excited for tonight's concert at DGS. Music begins at 7 pm and tickets may be purchased at the door.

Winter Guard Debut Performance

2012-01-27T11:43:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to the DGN Winter Guard, and their newly appointed coach Ms. Katie Prudden, for an outstanding debut performance this week! Keep up the great work ladies!

All State Music Education Conference: Rehearsals In Full Swing

2012-01-27T10:30:00.001-06:00

Hundreds of Illinois' most advanced student musicians are in rehearsal today for the upcoming All State Music Concerts. Tonight conference attendees will enjoy performances by the All State jazz ensembles. On Saturday the spotlight will shift to the All State Bands, Choirs and Orchestras.

Pictured here is DGN Band senior Jonathan Sheetz, playing bass clarinet in the All State Band rehearsal this morning.

All State Music Education Conference: Composer Showcase Concert

2012-01-26T21:57:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to Spencer Schillerstrom for an outstanding
performance at today's All State Music Composition Contest Showcase
Concert in Peoria, IL.

DGN Jazz Earns Accolades at Purdue Jazz Festival

2012-01-21T17:46:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to both the DGN Jazz Ensemble and the DGN Jazz Lab Band for earning Division 1 ratings at the 2012 Purdue Jazz Festival.

In addition to the ensemble awards, the following students were recognized with individual Solo Awards for their outstanding individual improvisation performances:

Shauna Bracken
Matt Butzen
Augustine Calvino
Rachel Cliva
Darius Daugvila
Charlie Dawes
Zach Foster
Justine Hung
Anthony Iacovetti
Brett Latman
John McGarry
PJ O'Hara
Sam O'Neil
Jon Poortinga
Clayton Possidoni
Spencer Schillerstrom (2 awards)
Thomas Svoboda

Safe & Sound at Purdue University

2012-01-20T18:03:00.001-06:00

The DGN Jazz Ensemble & Lab Band are in West Lafayette, IN tonight as the 2012 Purdue University Jazz Festival kicks off a weekend of great music making opportunities.

Let's Get It Started: Pep Band 2012

2012-01-14T21:45:00.001-06:00

Coach Colby

2012-01-12T13:51:00.001-06:00

Tenor Sax great Mark Colby was on campus today to work with the DGN Cannonball Combo in preparation for a performance this coming February at the College of DuPage.

Jazz @ Caribou

2012-01-07T11:51:00.001-06:00

The DGN "Cannonball" and "Dizzy" Jazz Combos recently performed at the Downers Grove Main Street Caribou Coffee, and were joined by a number of DGN jazz alumni who were back in town for the winter break.

19th Annual Jazz Cafe Features Dozens of Musicians and Draws Large Audience

2012-01-06T23:11:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the students of the Herrick Middle School Jazz Band, Jefferson Junior High School "Friends of Jazz", and the DGN jazz program for spirited and exciting performances at the 2012 Jazz Cafe.

Bill Byan - Jazz Cafe Tomorrow Night!

2012-01-05T09:48:00.000-06:00

DGN Bands are pleased to welcome professional drummer Bill Byan to
North High this week. Mr. Byan will be performing as a soloist with
the Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Lab Band at tomorrow night's 19th annual
Jazz Cafe charity benefit concert.

Swing by the DGN Cafe Friday night between 6 and 8:30 pm to hear great
jazz and support this year's charity, LUNGevity.

Tuba Christmas in Chicago

2011-12-22T10:01:00.001-06:00

At least six District 99 low brass musicians attended and performed in the 2011 Tuba Christmas held at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago. Hundreds of tuba and euphonium players gather here annually to produce some of the most unique and memorable Christmas carols you've ever heard!

Pictured from left to right: Joe Vitti, Marjorie Fera, Alexis Nystedt, and Adam Mills. Not pictured, but performing, were Martin Milan and Ben Casey.

A Trumpet Christmas!

2011-12-20T19:43:00.001-06:00

Many thanks to the trumpet players (and percussionist) who just paid a visit to the Miller household to do some caroling. They sounded great!

Santa's Elves At Work!

2011-11-30T16:13:00.001-06:00

North High Band, Choir and Orchestra students raised over $1,800 in
support of our school-wide "Giving Tree" program.

Thanks to all who contributed funds, shopped for presents, and wrapped gifts!

Trojan Marching Band Plays The DG Gingerbread Festival Parade & Tree Lighting

2011-11-25T20:01:00.001-06:00

DGN & DGS Jazzers Join Forces at Bonfield Express

2011-11-24T11:13:00.001-06:00

An incredibly talented "mega jazz combo" made up of ten District 99 instrumentalists performed this morning at the Bonfield Express 5K in downtown Downers Grove. A record breaking field of over 5,100 runners/walkers enjoyed the fabulous sounds of North & South High musicians as they crossed the finish line.

Way to go Mustangs & Trojans!

DGN Jazz Opens For Pete Ellman Big Band

2011-11-22T22:22:00.001-06:00

Congrats to the DGN Jazz Ensemble for a fabulous performance in Naperville tonight. Opening for the Pete Ellman Big Band, the Jazz Ensemble wowed listeners with an exciting 50 minute set.

DGN Jazz & Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra

2011-11-18T18:39:00.001-06:00

Today the members of the DGN Jazz Ensemble, and the Lyons Township High School Jazz Ensemble, spent an amazing afternoon and evening with members of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra. The clinics, sponsored by the College of DuPage, provided our students with incredible personal access to many of the most talented and sought-after jazz artists in the nation.

North High should feel proud of the way in which our student musicians represented the DGN Fine Arts Department. The members of the SJMO were highly complimentary of the musicianship demonstrated this afternoon in our exhibition performance.

Fall Band Concert

2011-11-17T22:26:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the members of the Jazz Lab Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Percussion Ensemble on a great concert this evening!

Backstage at the DGN Fall Band Invitational

2011-11-15T22:35:00.001-06:00

Congrats to the members of the DGN Jazz Ensemble, DGN Wind Ensemble, Jefferson Junior High Symphonic Winds, and the Westview Hills Middle School Band for amazing performances tonight! Each band offered the audience a musical performance filled with great variety and artistry.

IMEA District Jazz Fest Today!

2011-11-12T11:07:00.001-06:00

Select DGN jazz musicians are immersed in a terrific day of jazz music at the IMEA District 1 Jazz Festival. Our eight honored students, selected through competitive audition, are enjoying a day of learning with some of the most respected music educators in the nation.

If you are looking for a great jazz concert today, head down to Rich South High School. The bands start swingin' at 3:00 pm!

Location:Meadow Lake Dr,Richton Park,United States

DGN Musicians Support Cancer Research

2011-11-08T22:39:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the DGN student musicians (and their families) that raised over $10,000 this past week for St. Baldricks and LUNGevity!! We are very proud of, and humbled by, the generosity of the DGN community. Way to go Trojans!

DGN Music Students Raise Money For Cancer Research

2011-11-05T13:18:00.001-05:00

Music students at DGN have been working hard over the past week to raise funds for two worthy philanthropic organizations that support cancer research: St. Baldrick's, and LUNGevity.

This morning, in Naperville, a team of DGN Band students participated in a 'walk' to raise money for LUNGevity. As of this last night, nearly $4,000.00 had been raised by the student-organized "Band Geeks Unite"team.

Through online pledges and in-class donations, the DGN Band has raised over $5,000 for the St. Baldrick's 'shave' that is to take place this coming Tuesday.

Contributions are continuing to come in, and it is expected that DGN music families will have raised over $10,000.00 within the next several days.

Thank you to EVERYONE who has participated in support of this worthy cause!

Trojan Marching Band Class of 2012

2011-10-21T22:52:00.001-05:00

This evening marked the final football season performance of the 2011-2012 Trojan Marching Band. Congratulations and thank you to the Class of 2012 for your dedication, passion, and musical excellence. You have all had a significant and meaningful impact on the legacy of our program, and you will be missed!

Marching Band Showcases Musical Excellence

2011-10-20T22:32:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the 185 member Trojan Marching Band on a FANTASTIC Band O Rama concert! The band 'wowed' the audience with their musicianship and spirit as they performed nearly 30 pieces of music in just under one hour.

The 2011 Trojan Marching Band upheld a tradition of excellence that has become the hallmark of the band program at DGN. Well done Trojan Marching Band!

Band O Rama Tonight!!

2011-10-20T12:34:00.001-05:00

Don't miss the color, pageantry, and sounds of Band O Rama 2011! Thursday night - 7 pm - Johnson Auditorium. Come catch the Trojan Band, and enjoy the sounds of the 2011 football season!

Community Service

2011-10-14T21:46:00.001-05:00

Tonight DGN Band member Brett Latman played 'Taps' and the 'Star Spangled Banner' at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle as a part of the the Firefighters Silent Parade and Memorial Service. Thanks Brett for your volunteer service to the community!

Homecoming 2011

2011-09-30T16:39:00.001-05:00

It's an exciting day at DGN! Homecoming 2011 is in full swing.

The Trojan Marching Band was featured in multiple performances during this afternoon's assembly program.

Congrats to the Color Guard and Drum Line for their outstanding routines!

Six DGN Band members were nominated to the Homecoming Court this year, including (L to R) Senior King Candidate Stephen Shatzer, Senior Queen Candidate Anna Krainc, Junior Attendant Winner Jim Burke, and Junior Attendant Winner Amanda Nagy. (Not pictured are Senior King Candidate Brendan McBride and Sophomore Attendant Candidate Mandy Gibbons.)

"It was great to see so many community members out on the parade route this afternoon," said Band Director Bill Miller. "I love Homecoming and the chance to see former members of the band!"

Superhero Thursday- Fighting Artistic Ignorance for the Good of Humankind!

2011-09-29T10:40:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the DGN "Spirit Band" for providing entertainment as students and staff entered North High this morning.

The Fine Arts faculty is participating today in the "Superhero Dress Up" contest today, and is working diligently to stamp out "artistic ignorance" ... as well as the "Duke of York!"

"Super Show"

2011-09-27T21:03:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to three Fine Arts Department ensembles for terrific performances at tonight's 2011 Homecoming Variety Show: the Jazz Lab Band (Spiderman), the Chamber Choir (Superman (It's Not That Easy)), and the Jazz Ensemble (Caught in the Web) .

A special shout out to the Jazz Lab Band for their extra work as the 'house band,' backing vocalist Amanda Coppotelli as she performed "Tears Dry On Their Own" by Amy Winehouse, as well as the JLB Rhythm Section and Mr. Miller for providing the amazing soundtrack to "Get Back To Hogwarts." Great job Jazz Lab Band!!!

Homecoming Variety Show Tonight!

2011-09-27T07:33:00.000-05:00

Tonights superhero themed Homecoming Variety Show, directed by Mr. Bill Miller, will feature many incredible acts, including performances of "Spider Man" by the Jazz Lab Band and "Caught In The Web" by the Jazz Ensemble.Come on out for a fun-filled evening of entertainment featuring dozens of talented DGN students. The show starts at 7 pm. Tickets are $5.00 and may be purchased at the door.

We Love Our Team

2011-09-26T15:04:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the Trojan Marching Band for a great performance at DGS last Friday night. The DGN Band played from the stands with spirit and energy through to the end.

Now ... on to Homecoming and a victory over the Dukes of York!

Homecoming Week Schedule

2011-09-25T11:08:00.002-05:00

It will be an exciting and busy week for the DGN Bands!

You can find a complete listing of DGN Band Homecoming Week rehearsals and performances here ...

http://www.box.net/shared/duxilmabhjxmvqr3dk93

Carl Sandburg Marching Band Invitational

2011-09-24T20:45:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the Trojan Marching Band for an outstanding performance this evening at the Carl Sandburg Marching Band Invitational. DGN was "first class" in every imaginable way, including a very fine musical presentation that garnered two Division I "Excellent" ratings from a distinguished panel of music educators.

The Eastern Illinois University Panther Marching Band performed their traditional pre game show, and an exciting "half time" show, in exhibition. Two DGN Marching Band Alumni (trumpet soloist Jay Kelliher & baritone Elizabeth Grubart) performed tonight with the EIU Band. Congratulations to both!

Drum Major Gift Exchange

2011-09-23T23:21:00.002-05:00

Cross Town Classic 2011

2011-09-23T23:15:00.002-05:00

The annual Cross Town Classic football game took place thisevening. While the football teams from North and South High Schools in DownersGrove squared off against each other on the field, the student musicians joinedforces in multiple ways throughout the course of the evening.

Conducted by North High Band director and SouthHigh alum Bill Miller, the combined marching bands and choirs from both Northand South joined forces to perform a stunning National Anthem prior to thegame. In addition to sharing the field for the pre-game festivities, the bandsperformed a combined dance team number, featuring the Athenas from DGN and theFillies from DGS. We are proud of every student musician that joined in thecollaborative efforts to help celebrate just how much music is a part of theschools and the community here in Downers Grove.

3 Notes of Note

2011-09-20T09:58:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to all the fine musicians of the Trojan MarchingBand for making a strong impression this early in the season. Well done!

From an LT Football Parent:

I have a nephew on the LT Varsityfootball team, and I attend all of his games. I would just like tocomment that it was truly a pleasure to play your team last night at yourfield. Your entire organization showed exemplary class and sportsmanshipthat I feel is sorely lacking at most other schools. I also felt that itwas very nice of your band to play the LT theme song to welcome the opposingteam. You should be proud of the way that Downers Grove North presentsitself to other schools. Your team played well, the PA system isfantastic, the field exemplary, the band excellent, and the overall experiencewas a pleasure. I don't normally take the time to write letters such asthis except in cases where I feel it's well deserved. Kudos to a trueclass act at Downers North!!

From an LT Band Parent:

I just wanted to tell you how impressedI was with the DGN marching band! As you know I am an LT band parentand I couldn't get over how exuberant DG band students were! Theirroutine on the field was excellent as well. Even after half-time, whenmost bands start goofing around, the DG band continued with superenergy, great pump-up tunes and even choreography! The most impressive thingis that they learned our school song and played it at the end of thegame...real class act.

From a DG community member:

Wewere at the first game and enjoyed the band and all of theauxiliaries. The band had the best balance and most mature sound I haveheard in years. The flags were a wonderful in time and agreat compliment to the band. The percussion was very creativepulling the band together no matter how spread out the band was on thefield. The enthusiasm was contagious to everyone in the stands. Youand Bill are bringing out the best in music and spirit. Thanks for thehard work. We have lived in Downers for over 40 years and this yearsis making the highest mark yet in the history of DGN. Keep the music going.

2011-09-20T08:09:00.003-05:00

Pregame - 9-16-11

Halftime 9-16-11

featuring the Herrick Middle School, Jefferson Junior High School and Westview Hills Middle School Bands!

Trojan Band Welcomes "The Future"

2011-09-16T23:28:00.001-05:00

This evening the 190 member Trojan Marching Band welcomed nearly 200
middle school and junior high student musicians to perform at half
time. The standing room only crowd gave all the musicians a huge
ovation in appreciation of a job well done.

Thank you to Herrick, Jefferson, and Westview Hills for being with us tonight!

2011-09-11T15:53:00.002-05:00

Halftime Show from September 2, 2011

2011-09-11T15:48:00.000-05:00

Pregame Show from September 2, 2011

Jazz Bands 2011-2012

2011-09-03T09:41:00.000-05:00

Ensemble rosters have now been posted. The link below takes you to an online folder where you may either view, or download, the audition results in PDF file format.

Many thanks to all the dedicated band students who participated in the audition process.

Link to folder: http://www.box.net/shared/5axeu5b7jybckuvkgol6

Friday Night Lights

2011-09-02T23:48:00.001-05:00

Congratulations from the Press Box!

2011-09-02T23:32:00.000-05:00

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to the members of the Trojan Marching Band for their outstanding performance tonight. From the minute they took to the track in the pregame parade, through the WHOLE game, and all the way back to the Field House for the Alma Mater they showed school spirit, energy, musicianship, and set a great example for how to really enjoy a football game! Thank you to our Student Leadership team for all your leadership and logistical support. Thank you to our seniors who have been setting a great example for us for four years now. Thank you to all our upper classmen who have been helping our newcomers learn the ropes and get used to life at North High. And THANK YOU to our "former newcomers turned newest formers" who have been doing such a GREAT JOB since they joined us at band camp.

We're off to a really exciting start to our season - let's not stop now! Let's keep working hard to show our fans what we're all about this year.

Go North!

Jazz Class Callbacks for Friday, Sept. 2

2011-09-01T10:15:00.002-05:00

The following students are asked to come to call-backs on Friday, September 2, at 7 am:

Alto Saxophones:
Augustine Calvino
Akira Crabdree
Erin Elgass
Lucy Lu
Brendan McBride
Evangeline Tuohy

Tenor Saxophones:
Kyle Lewandowski
Kaitlyn Wayman-Dodd

Trumpets:
None

Trombones:
John McGarry
Anthony Iacovetti
Ryan Zemel
Joe Vitti

Rhythm Section:
Hannah Young

*** We will likely ask everyone listed above to do some additional Blues in F improvisation, as well as to play more from IND Line and With Gratitude. Bring everything!

*** If you don't see your name, don't panic.

*** Please check back here on the Blog Saturday for final ensemble lists and a schedule of rehearsals.

Thank you to everyone who has been, and continues to be, a part of this process.

Jazz Class Callbacks for Thursday, Sept. 1

2011-08-31T15:22:00.000-05:00

The only students who are required to attend the jazz auditions on Thursday, Sept. 1st, are:

1) those saxophone students who wish to play "IND Line" for Jazz Ensemble consideration.

2) all bass players

No other students are called for Thursday.

*** Please check this website again on Thursday evening for information about Friday callbacks.

Band Camp "Purple & White Showcase"

2011-08-19T23:19:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the 190 member Trojan Marching Band for an incredible week of learning. Tonight's preview show was evidence that the members of the DGN Band are ready for - and committed to - another extremely successful year.

Special shout-out to Matt Butzen in the percussion section who was the last person standing in our "march off" competition.

Taking Shape

2011-08-18T16:18:00.000-05:00

The 185 member Trojan Marching Band has been hard at work this week
preparing for the 2011 season.

We invite you to join band students and staff for the 2011 Preview
Show - Friday, August 19, at 6 pm on the practice field. Come cheer on
the Trojans and celebrate the accomplishments of these dedicated and
talented students!

Great Work Today, Band! Here's those files we talked about!

2011-08-16T22:53:00.000-05:00

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE PRACTICE FILES WE TALKED ABOUT AT BAND CAMP?

They have been relocated to our North High Bands site on Blackboard.

Happy New Year Trojan Marching Band!

2011-08-16T12:55:00.002-05:00

The full 190 member Trojan Marching Band is back on campus today and making great music! Happy New Year!

Band Camp 2011 - Newcomers Section Colors Night

2011-08-15T20:32:00.002-05:00

Welcome Band Newcomers!

2011-08-15T09:20:00.000-05:00

Congratulations Jesse Backes

2011-08-14T10:01:00.002-05:00

The North High Fine Arts Department and the DGN Band extend congratulations to alumnus Jesse Backes, and the 2011 Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps, for winning the "High Percussion" trophy at the 2011 World Championships in Indianapolis, IN. Jesse, a member of the Caviliers Snare Drum line this year, is a student at the University of Illinois and a former Section Captain in the DGN Trojan Marching Band.

Drum Line & Color Guard Kick Off Band Camp 2011

2011-08-13T14:02:00.001-05:00

Band Leaders Tackle Teams & High Ropes Course

2011-08-08T10:40:00.000-05:00

The 2011 Trojan Marching Band Leadership Team is at the Lincoln Marsh
Teams and High Ropes Course in Wheaton, IL, this morning. Today marks
the beginning of an intensive three-day training where student leaders
from the band are honing their peer leadership skills.

Color Guard Car Wash

2011-08-06T12:49:00.001-05:00

Where has the DGN Band hat been this summer?!

2011-07-12T21:19:00.000-05:00

Today the DGN Band Hat (with Mr. Teague as chaperone) visited the "Field of Dreams" in "Heaven" ... (aka 'Iowa').

Where else has the Band Hat been this summer? Email Mr. Teague your pictures of the hat on vacation, and we will add images to our always growing gallery of shots from all over the world!

The 'World Tour' gallery may be viewed on the DGN Band's Blog: dgnbands.blogspot.com

Congrats DGN and DGS Bands! See you at the DG Parade this afternoon!

2011-07-04T10:28:00.001-05:00

Happy 4th from the Darien Parade

2011-07-04T10:04:00.001-05:00

District 99 Marching Band Ready for July 4th!

2011-06-29T22:16:00.001-05:00

Members of the DGN and DGS Marching Bands have joined forces once again this year in preparation for the Darien and Downers Grove Independence Day Parades. Tonights rehearsal at North High was the final prep for this combined band effort.

Come out and cheer on your Trojan Marching Band and Marching Mustangs next Monday at either the Darien (9:30 AM) or Downers Grove (1:00 PM) parades.

Special Note: The District 99 Marching Band will be sporting NEW uniform shirts this year! Look for Mustang Blue, Trojan Purple, and the NEW District 99 Logo on the move!

D99 Honors Band Info (for Wind Ensemble Members)

2011-06-29T22:03:00.001-05:00

Students registered for Wind Ensemble in 2011-12 are reminded they should complete the D99 Honors Band Tour Interest Survey by Friday, July 1st.

Please click here for a copy of the letter that was mailed home last month, and contains the link students need to complete the interest survey.

July 4th Parade Performances - Details

2011-06-25T00:47:00.000-05:00

Click here for all the details about the two parade performances scheduled for the District 99 Marching Band.

July 4th Parade Preparation

2011-06-15T23:47:00.001-05:00

Members of the DGN and DGS marching bands were hard at work tonight in preparation for the July 4th parades in Darien and Downers Grove.

Come Rain or Come Shine - Uncle Sam Wants You!

2011-06-15T17:33:00.000-05:00

Tonight's District 99 Marching Band practice for the July 4th Parades is happening - rain or shine. Please meet in the DGS (South High) band room at 6:30 pm with your instrument. We will march on the parking lot at DGS, or in the field house if it's raining.

See you soon!

DGN Band Performs for Memorial Day Ceremonies

2011-05-30T12:33:00.001-05:00

Members of the DGN Band were up early this morning in support of Woodridge and Downers Grove municipal Memorial Day ceremonies. Members of the band performed in both events.
Many thanks, and congratulations to all of our Trojan musicians for exemplary community service. North High salutes all the service men and women of our nation, and specifically - today - remembers those who have given their life in support of our freedoms.

2011-2012 Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble Announced

2011-05-26T16:54:00.000-05:00

Audition results for the 2011-12 Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble may be found by clicking here.

Omega Jazz Breakfast

2011-05-26T07:09:00.000-05:00

Jazz students celebrated a terrific year of music making with scrumptious pancakes, the "Fruit Fiesta" and the inevitable Omega Skillet.

Jazz Combo at Fairview Village Art Fair

2011-05-24T23:24:00.001-05:00

Congratulations, and thanks, to the members of the DGN Jazz Combo, for performing recently at the Fairview Village Retirement Center Art Fair. Great musicianship + volunteer spirit = community success. Way to go Trojans!

"Jazz In The Park" 2011

2011-05-24T23:02:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the DGN and DGS Jazz bands for a terrific "Jazz In The Park" concert tonight! All five bands performed with energy and terrific musicianship.

A special "shout out" to the seniors from the Class of 2011!

DGN Band Banquet 2011

2011-05-22T00:05:00.001-05:00

A record number of band members and family attended the 2011 DGN Band Banquet. Much appreciation is shared with the student Band Board helpers for decorating the banquet hall this afternoon and to the Music Booster parents who organized the dinner and raffle.

Congratulations to ALL the students honored this evening ... especially the Class of 2011!

Band Banquet Tonight!

2011-05-21T16:09:00.000-05:00

We are just a couple hours away from the 2011 Band Banquet. We are looking forward to celebrating with everyone tonight!

2011-12 Color Guard & Winter Guard Announced

2011-05-20T14:12:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all who auditioned for the DGN Color Guard & Winter Guard. We appreciate everyone's efforts and interest in this section of the Trojan Marching Band.

Click here for the 2011-2012 Team Roster.

Jazz Ensemble plays for IASA Meeting

2011-05-18T11:26:00.002-05:00

Congratulations (and thank you) to the members of the DGN Jazz Ensemble for their performance this morning at the Illinois Association of School Administrators meeting in Bloomingdale, IL. The band sounded terrific and and received many ovations from those in attendance. Thank you to the Jazz Ensemble for getting up extra-early this morning to represent DGN and District 99 in such a professional and musical manner.

2011-2012 Wind Ensemble Announced

2011-05-17T16:48:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the 2011-12 DGN Wind Ensemble. The current ensemble roster may be accessed here.

If you are a student that auditioned for Wind Ensemble, but were not selected this year, thank you for your efforts. We appreciate your dedication very much. We look forward to working with you in the Symphonic Band in 2011-12. The final results for Symphonic Band & Concert Band will be available next week.

Spring Band Concert

2011-05-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the members of the Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, and Symphonic Band for a wonderful Spring Band Concert! Each ensemble performed with great attention to detail and musical nuance. It was an exciting concert for all in attendance!

A special 'kudos' is extended to Kevin Gupana (senior oboe soloist) as well as all the members of the Class of 2011 who performed their final concert with the DGN Bands tonight.

Way to go DGN Bands!!

German Music Exchange - Sky Deck and Millennium Park

2011-04-21T21:23:00.002-05:00

The weather finally cooperated today, and our friends from Germany enjoyed a terrific day of sights in Chicago. It's so hard to believe that this magical week is quickly coming to an end!

Jazz At The Movies

2011-04-19T23:02:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the Big Band from the Music School in Beitigheim-Bissingen, Germany, who wowed the throng gathered at the Tivoli for the "Jazz at the Movies" concert tonight.

Kudos as well are extended to the Mustang jazz musicians from DGS (the DGS Jazz Lab Band, led by Glenn Williams, and the DGS Jazz Ensemble, led by Craig Roselieb) for terrific performances this evening at the Tivoli.

Bietigheim-Bissingen Jugendblasorchester Concert

2011-04-19T09:09:00.000-05:00

The musical and cultural exchange that exists between D99 and the BB Germany Music School is now more than a quarter century old. The foundations of this exchange are music, culture and relationships. To celebrate every aspect of this exchange, a concert was held last night in the North High School Johnson Auditorium, featuring the Bietigheim-Bissingen/Germany Music School ensemble JugenBlasOrchester. The North High Wind Ensemble and South High Wind Ensemble also performed on this celebratory event.

The concert opened with a fabulous pre-concert theatre organ recital and got better as the evening progressed. The North and South High Wind Ensembles performed challenging repertoire with poise and precision. The BB Germany Music School JBO then performed a diverse and challenging program, culminating with multiple standing ovations and encore selections. Congratulations to the student musicians from both continents for expanding their boundaries through the sharing of music, of culture, and of relationships.

Prior to the culminating piece of the concert, the faculty and chaperones from the BB Germany Music School and D99 exchanged gifts. This tradition is part of the fabric of nearly every exchange relationship that exists both in the USA and abroad, and we are proud to continue in this habit. Because the exchange is now more than 25 years old, relationships are continuing through generations.

Reimund Schiffer, director of the BB Music School Germany, extended an invitation to the D99 Honors Band to visit Germany in June of 2012, which Brayer Teague on behalf of the students and staff heartily accepted.

We are just hours away ...

2011-04-18T14:36:00.000-05:00

... from tonight's big concert featuring the Jugendblasorchester from Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany.

Join us at 7 pm in the North High Auditorium for a wonderful evening of music celebrating our 25 year exchange with the B.B. Musikschule.

USA vs Germany - Soccer Friendly

2011-04-17T21:16:00.001-05:00

Tonight's soccer friendly between District 99 and the Musikschule of Bietigheim-Bissingen was a great evening of sportsmanship, friendship, and surprising results. In a stunning turn of global fortunes, the USA team quickly jumped out to a 3-0 lead before eventually winning 5-2.

Congratulations to all of the student participants, as well as all family members and supporters who came out to cheer.

Welcome to our friends from Germany!

2011-04-16T23:16:00.001-05:00

Tonight District 99 welcomed students from Bietigheim-Bissingen as they arrived from Germany. 2011 marks the 25th Anniversary of the music exchange between District 99 and the Musikschule of Bietigheim-Bissingen.

Many thanks to our music families from DGN and DGS for opening their homes to the members of the German band.

Band Banquet 2011 - Information / Ticket Order Forms

2011-04-15T09:10:00.000-05:00

Everything you need to know about the 2011 Band Banquet may be found at the link below ...

http://www.box.net/shared/dfdn86tque

Stevenson meets Schwantner

2011-04-14T16:57:00.002-05:00

DGN Percussionist and Band senior Isaac Stevenson recently performed as a soloist with the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. Isaac performed the percussion concerto by world-renown composer Joseph Schwantner, and had the opportunity to meet the composer recently when he was on the campus of Northwestern University.

Congratulations Isaac!

DGN Bands Welcome Guest Artist Mark Colby

2011-04-11T18:47:00.002-05:00

Today North High School welcomed Mark Colby (www.markcolby.com / DePaul University / Elmhurst College) to work with the Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Combo, and present a clinic to all three concert band classes. It was an exciting day of musical sharing in preparation for tomorrow night's concert.
Many thanks is extended to our North High Music Boosters for supporting Mr. Colby's work with our students.
Please join us at 7 pm, Tuesday, April 12th, in the Johnson Auditorium for the "Sharing Is Caring" Jazz and Percussion Ensemble concert. Mark Colby will be featured with both the Jazz Lab Band and Jazz Ensemble.

Hey Seniors! (Hey What?) It's time to reflect ...

2011-04-11T10:31:00.000-05:00

Attention Seniors! It's time to complete the Senior Reflection information for the Band Banquet!

The “SENIOR REFLECTIONS” will be printed in the banquet program. Before we introduce you at the banquet for your senior award, we will read a PORTION of the essay that you write about your experiences in Band at DGN. The idea of this essay is for you to communicate any thoughts or feelings you would like to share with your friends, parents, fellow classmates, etc.

Instructions for submitting your Banquet Senior Reflections, as well as a Baby/Toddler Picture, may be found at the following link:

http://www.box.net/shared/gbuixqvqai

The due date for materials is Sunday, May 1, 2011.

National Adjudicator's Band Invitational Contest

2011-04-09T15:27:00.000-05:00

Today North High School hosted the National Adjudicator's Band Invitational Contest. Bands from as far away as New York and Texas participated.

Congratulations ton the DGN Concert Band, under the direction of Mr. Miller, for opening today's contest with an exhibition performance. Following that performance band students were fortunate to work with internationally acclaimed composer Mark Camphouse.

Many thanks are extended to the DGN Music Boosters, and the students of the DGN Bands, for staffing today's contest with a terrific team of volunteers.

Park District Asks Residents to Name New Bandshell

2011-03-23T13:15:00.002-05:00

Article from the Downers Grove Patch:

http://downersgrove.patch.com/articles/park-district-asks-residents-to-name-new-bandshell#

Park District Asks Residents to Name New Bandshell

2011-03-23T13:14:00.002-05:00

Exchange with Wayszata High School

2011-03-22T06:21:00.002-05:00

North High welcomed the Wayszata High School Wind Ensemble (Plymouth, MN - suburb of Minneapolis) to campus today for an 'Exchange Concert' with the DGN Wind Ensemble. Under the baton of conductor & teacher Dr. Donal Krubsack, the students from Wayszata performed beautifully. The band's balance, blend, and intonation - not to mention their technical facility - were inspiring. The members of the DGN Wind Ensemble also performed with excellence as Mr. Miller led the group in a performance of Richard Salva's 'Baicatu.'

Our thanks goes out to the WHS Wind Ensemble for stopping at DGN on their way home from their Chicago tour.

Spring Band Concert

2011-03-18T00:15:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the members of the Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, as well as senior soloists Marie Kirkegaard and Isaac Stevenson on a wonderful Spring Band Concert.

A special thank you to Dr. Matthew Mailman for guest conducting the bands tonight and for sharing his musical insight with our students this week.

Guest Conductor - Dr. Matthew Mailman

2011-03-16T16:16:00.000-05:00

Dr. Matthew Mailman, Professor of Conducting at the Wanda Bass School of Music of Oklahoma City University, was on campus today working with all of our band students in preparation for tomorrow night's Spring Band Concert. After school, Dr. Mailman led a session exploring the art of conducting.

Thursday night Dr. Mailman will guest conduct each of the DGN concert bands, including a performance of his father's (Martin Mailman) famous composition "Liturgical Music For Band" (1967).

Winter Guard Success at Athena Spectacular

2011-02-27T22:20:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the Winter Guard for their performances at the Athena Spectacular on Saturday. The team placed 3rd in the AAA Lyrical Flag category and 2nd in the AAA Tall Flag category.

Winter Guard Qualifies for State!

2011-02-21T14:59:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to the Winter Guard, and Head Coach Emily Rivera, for their performances at the Andrew High School Team Dance Illinois Regional Competition this past weekend. The team placed 6th in the Division 1 Tall Flag category and 5th in the Division 1 Lyrical Flag category and also qualified their Tall Flag routine for the TDI State Competition based on their high scores for the day.

Way to go DGN Winter Guard!

NIU Jazz Concert at DGN Cancelled

2011-02-02T15:44:00.001-06:00

All District 99 scheduled events for Thursday, February 3rd have been canceled. The buildings are completely shut-down, and consequently the Northern Illinois University / District 99 Jazz Concert has been canceled.

As you can appreciate, this is all unfolding rather quickly. We have no further information at this time regarding ticket refunds, or how those will be processed. As soon as we have more information we will of course let you know.

DGN Jazz Students Find Success at Purdue

2011-01-23T20:04:00.005-06:00

Members of the Downers Grove North High School Jazz Bands took their show on the road this past weekend, participating in the 21st Annual Purdue University Jazz Festival. The Purdue festival, which draws outstanding high school jazz programs from Indiana, Michigan and Illinois, began on Friday, January 21 with a concert featuring the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra from New York and continued all day Saturday, January 22 with hundreds of student musicians performing for panels of internationally recognized jazz musicians.

The DGN Jazz Ensemble performed in the Loeb Playhouse and earned a Division I rating. Six students from this band garnered Outstanding Soloist/Musicianship awards. Congratulations to Sebastian Calvino (trombone), Justine Hung (piano), John Janke (guitar), Spencer Schillerstrom (tenor sax), Zach Schneeweis (trombone), and Isaac Stevenson (percussion).

The DGN Jazz Lab Band, performing in the North Ballroom had eight students recognized with Soloist/Musicianship Awards. Congratulations to Rachel Clivaz (piano), Jeremy Craven (trumpet), Connor Dimmick (guitar), Tommy Donnelly (trumpet), Steve Janke (bass), Brendan McBride (alto sax), John McGarry (trombone), and PJ O'Hara (percussion), for earning this distinction from the adjudicators.

The DGN Jazz Combo performed in the Faculty Lounge, and were lauded by the adjudication pannel for their creative programming and musical arrangements. Congratulations to Nolan Schillerstrom (guitar), Spencer Schillerstrom (tenor sax), Isaac Stevenson (percussion), and James Tandaric (bass) for their Soloist/Musicianship Awards in this division of the competition.

"Our students enjoy the opportunity to attend this great Jazz Festival each year because we have the chance to hear so many wonderful jazz ensembles and soloists. Having 18 musicians recognized with awards is a credit to the hard work and dedication of our North High students," said department chairperson and music teacher Brayer Teague.

The community is invited to hear the award winning DGN and DGS Johnson Auditorium as they share the stage with the renowned NIU Jazz Ensemble and guest artist Ernie Watts at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 3, 2011. Tickets are $8 ($6 for students) and available at the door.