UIS High School Wind Academy

The UIS High School Wind Academy is an intensive learning experience designed for advanced high school wind and percussion students. This highly-selective, audition-based program provides talented young musicians the opportunity to study and perform challenging, high-quality repertoire in a supportive and musically rigorous environment. The HSWA offers 6-week sessions at an advanced level.

The program includes weekly rehearsals, workshops, and performances designed to offer students rigorous musical training and the opportunity refine their technique, deepen their musical understanding, and connect with a community of musical peers.

Led by an experienced conductor and professional teaching artists, the UIS High School Wind Academy is designed to help prepare students for success in college-level music programs and beyond.

*The ensemble welcomes select exceptional middle-school students.

Audition Requirements

Audition requirements for the UIS High School Wind Academy are as follows: Applicants must prepare and perform two contrasting pieces. Audition submissions should be provided as a link to an online video.

Session I: Ensemble Technique

September 18 - October 23, 2025: Emphasis is placed on collaborative musicianship, leadership within sections, non-verbal communication, and the ability to adapt in real time to a variety of musical settings. Repertoire will include chamber music and large ensemble works, allowing students to explore diverse styles and develop the flexibility needed to thrive in a wide range of ensemble environments. Session I is ideal for advanced wind, brass, and percussion students seeking to elevate their ensemble performance skills in a disciplined, supportive, and artistically vibrant setting.

Schedule

The UIS High School Wind Academy runs from September 18 - October 25, 2025.
Classes take place on Thursdays, 6-8pm on the UIS campus.

Performances

The Fall concert of the UIS High School Wind Academy will take place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, 7pm.

Cost

Tuition is $200. This includes all rehearsals, masterclasses, technique classes, and performances.

*Tuition is non-refundable. A partial refund may be considered in extenuating and documented circumstances such as a prolonged illness.

Certificate of Completion

Students that complete successfully all of the requirements of the UIS High School Wind Academy will receive a certificate of completion.