Victor J. Andrew High School’s Wind Symphony performed at the 2025 University of Illinois SuperState Concert Band Festival—an elite, invitation-only event showcasing the top bands in Illinois. The ensemble, which includes Dash Wilson on oboe, earned the highest honor: selection as the Class 2A Honor Band. They will return in 2026 as featured performers at Foellinger Great Hall, UIUC.
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Dash Wilson, of Orland Park, is making a name for himself writing compositions for small and large orchestra ensembles, and recently won first place in the 2025 Illinois Young Composer Contest for his original composition, Echo of a Raindrop. Read the Daily Southtown interview at Chicago Tribune, or download the pdf if you have trouble viewing it there.

Dash Wilson, a junior at Victor J. Andrew High School, has been awarded first place in the 2025 Illinois Young Composer Contest for his original composition, Echo of a Raindrop. This annual contest is open to all high school composers residing in Illinois. This recognition underscores Wilson's exceptional compositional abilities and his potential for future success in the world of music composition. Read More on Patch

Victor J. Andrew High School’s Jazz Ensemble participated in the 15th Annual UIC Jazz Festival on April 2, 2025, held at UIC’s Student Center East. Dash Wilson performed as the ensemble’s pianist. The festival featured top student jazz groups from across the Midwest and included clinics, adjudicated performances, and masterclasses led by UIC jazz faculty. The day concluded with a concert by the UIC Jazz Ensemble, featuring renowned guest artist Ingrid Jensen. 

Out of the 10,000 students who auditioned statewide for the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA), and the 7,000 who advanced to the District Festival in November, and only 1,500 students were chosen to participate in the All-State Program, held in Peoria, Illinois, from January 29 to February 1. From District 230, 19 talented musicians were selected for this prestigious event — an incredible achievement!  Read More on Patch 

Victor J. Andrew High School wind symphony band is making a repeat visit to the quintessential statewide band festival - Illinois SuperState Concert Band Festival, hosted by the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, on May 5-6, 2023. 
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