Support UHS Bands
A Legacy of excellence
The longevity and commitment of our outstanding band directors and staff has established a legacy of excellence in music education at Urbana High School spanning nearly 100 years. Our dedicated team of music educators includes Darren Hicks, Stacey Peterik, and Christi Fernsberg, who collaborate across grades 5-12 to foster student success. Our Director Emeritus, Ken Peters (UHS Director of Bands from 1977-2001) continues to support our bands and can be spotted in the stands cheering on the Tigers and his grandson, one of our three current drum majors. Kristi Kaplan, Color Guard Instructor, leads our champion Color Guard and Aaron Kavelman, Drumline Instructor for the Marching Illini, serves as Percussion Instructor of our award-winning percussion ensemble.
From Left: Stacey Peterik, UHS Tiger Marching Band Director, UMS/UHS Jazz Band Director, USD116 5th Grade Band Director, and ILMEA Jazz Representative; Kelly Hill, Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation Executive Director; Christi Fernsberg; UMS/UHS Band Director and ILMEA District 3 President; Darren Hicks, UHS Director of Bands and Urbana School District #116 Music Coordinator; Ken Peters, Director Emeritus of Urbana High School Bands (1977-2001).
The UHS Band Program touches so many lives in so many positive ways. It provides a sense of pride and belonging both in our schools and greater community, as well as builds lifelong friendships, confidence, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. Any gift, no matter the size, helps make it possible to provide excellence in music education regardless of income or ability. We greatly appreciate your support! Donate to the Urbana Band Boosters annual operating fund here. Or, support Urbana Bands 100th Anniversary Equipment Fund here.
