Vincennes University will host the southwest Indiana site of the Indiana Bandmasters Association 2025 All-District Honor Band this weekend at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center.
VU is one of 10 host locations statewide for the annual event, which brings together outstanding high school musicians selected through director nominations and student applications. This year’s southwest ensemble includes 84 students from 19 area schools, including all three Knox County high schools with band programs—North Knox, South Knox, and Vincennes Lincoln.
Susie Jackson, VU Director of Bands and Chair of the Performing Arts Department, said hosting the honor band strengthens VU’s connection with regional music programs while giving university students hands-on experience assisting with rehearsals and sectionals. She noted it also encourages high school musicians to consider continuing band in college, whether or not they pursue a music major.
Jackson said the experience is particularly meaningful for students from smaller schools. “This is an opportunity to play in a large wind ensemble and perform literature they might not be able to do with a smaller band,” she said.
The 2025 honor ensemble will be led by guest conductor and Vincennes University alumnus Bryen Warfield. Students will rehearse throughout the day Saturday, return Sunday morning for a dress rehearsal, and present a public performance.
The concert is free and open to the community. It begins Sunday at 4 p.m. Eastern in the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. Jackson encourages residents to attend and support young musicians from across the region.
