Stagg High School welcomed thousands of spectators and student performers Saturday for its 45th Annual Marching Band Jamboree, an event celebrating music, competition and community spirit.
The jamboree, one of the earliest in the competitive marching band season, was held in Stagg’s football stadium at 8015 W. 111th St. and featured more than 15 high school marching bands from across the region. A highlight of the event was a special performance by the renowned Marching Illini from the University of Illinois.
“The energy and talent of the marching bands and color guards is incredible. It’s also a great representation of how our community pulls together to support such a huge event, which benefits our Stagg band, choir and guard programs,” said Jennie Anderson, A.A. Stagg Music Boosters vice president and Jamboree chairperson.
In total, more than 1,500 students from grades nine through 12 performed throughout the day. The event began at 2:20 p.m. and continued until 10:20 p.m., with awards presented in the early evening for Class A and AA bands and at the end of the competition for Class AAA bands. Judges evaluated each performance and provided feedback and scores used to determine winners in each category.
The jamboree concluded with an exhibition performance by Stagg’s Marching Chargers, who showcased this year’s competitive show, “Tron,” followed by a special exhibition by the Marching Illini.
“Our Jamboree kicks off the competitive marching band season for most schools and there is always a sense of excitement to perform their best,” Anderson said. “Our Stagg students also love to volunteer and host throughout the day. It’s a fun day for all!”
Christopher Betz, a Stagg choir teacher, said the jamboree is one of the school’s most anticipated events.
“The Jamboree has always been one of the highlights of our year,” Betz said. “It’s a celebration of the incredible talent, hard work, and spirit our students bring to the field. We love welcoming schools and families from across the area to share in the energy and tradition that make this event so special.”
Betz added that this year’s featured guest performance was especially meaningful.
“We’re also especially excited to welcome the Marching Illini from the University of Illinois as our featured guest performers at the end of the competition!” he said.
The jamboree relied on about 160 parent volunteers who helped organize logistics, coordinate performers and manage food stands. Food options included Papa Joe’s pizza, grilled burgers and cheeseburgers prepared by school volunteers, and Stagg’s popular “Marching Taco,” a mix of Fritos, cheese and chili. Additional concession offerings included hot dogs, candy, chips and drinks, with both cash and credit cards accepted.
Admission prices ranged from $15 for adults to $5 for children ages 7 to 13, while kids under 6 and Stagg students were admitted free. Tickets were available at the gate and online.
The event also served as the Stagg Music Boosters’ largest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds supporting the school’s band, choir, percussion ensembles and color guard programs, as well as scholarships for student musicians.