UM Honor Band
February 9-11, 2023
We are excited to announce the 14th Annual University of Mobile Honor Band. Your time at UM Honor Band will be artistically inspiring, musically challenging, educational and FUN – all at the university named a Best Value Regional College in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
In addition to rehearsal time, under the direction of Mr. Joel Henson, the schedule will also include performances by University of Mobile instrumental ensembles such as Symphonic Winds, RamCorps, the UM Jazz Band, and Welsh Revival. For the 10th year, students in grades 9-12 will have an opportunity which is completely unique to the University of Mobile Honor Band program – to perform the World Premiere of an original work for band, conducted by composer Steve Dunn.
STEP 1: Audition Procedure
Admission into the Honor Band is based on application and band director recommendation, not by audition. There ARE chair placement auditions upon arrival. Those audition requirements are down below!
University of Mobile Band Scholarships will be awarded to all First Chair Players!
STEP 2: Honor Band Cost
The cost for the honor band is $75 ($10 non-refundable application fee and $65 registration fee upon acceptance). This fee covers 3 meals, Honor Band t-shirt, Honor Band medal, Honor Band name tag, clinician, etc.
STEP 3: Application and Nomination Forms
For Students 9th-12th Grade:
Upon completion of your online application, an e-mail will be sent to your director for their nomination.
For Directors:
Upon completion of your online nomination, an application will be e-mailed to your nominated student.
Featured Clinician & Conductor
Joel Henson is president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and associate director of bands at both Pelham High School and Pelham Park Middle School in Alabama. During his 20-year career as an instrumental music educator, he has served students at both the middle and high school levels. He is a National Board Certified Teacher and has served as a clinician and adjudicator at events throughout the southeastern United States.
He is affiliated with the National Association for Music Education, Alabama Music Educators Association, Alabama Bandmasters Association, National Band Association, Phi Beta Mu International School Bandmaster Fraternity and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity.
Henson is a graduate of the University of Alabama, receiving both a Bachelor of Science in education and a Master of Arts with emphasis in instrumental music education. He and his wife, Malia, live in Helena, Alabama, with their two sons, Reggie and Brent.
FAQs
When does registration end?
The Deadline for Applications and Nomination Forms is November 21, 2022
What do we wear for performances?
Concert Dress is your high school concert band uniform
Do I bring a music stand?
Yes! Each participant must bring a music stand with them for the weekend.
Is housing provided for participants?
UM Honor Band does not provide housing, but there are a number of hotels very close to campus.