Oakland University hosts nearly 200 students for 2025 High School Honor Band

Oakland University’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance welcomed nearly 200 talented high school musicians from 96 schools across Michigan to campus on November 7–8 for the 2025 Oakland University High School Honor Band, one of the region’s largest and most anticipated high school music events.

Due to the extraordinary interest from students across the state, this year’s Honor Band was hosted in the beautiful Oakland Center to allow for more student involvement and showcase OU’s beautiful campus. With more than 400 student nominations submitted, the School of Music, Theatre and Dance launched a new two-ensemble format this year: a 9th–10th Grade Honor Band conducted by Damien Crutcher, and an 11th–12th Grade Honor Band conducted by Dr. Kevin Geraldi.

Student musicians perform at the 2025 High School Honor Band event at Oakland University

Across the two-day event, students participated in full-ensemble rehearsals and sectionals with Oakland University’s distinguished music faculty. The weekend culminated in a concert in the Founders Ballroom, featuring both honor ensembles as well as a special performance by the Oakland University Wind Symphony.

“This event continues to be a significant point of pride for our department, showcasing the outstanding talent of young musicians in Michigan and highlighting Oakland University’s collaborative initiative within music education in our state,” said Dr. Pamela Klena, Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of the High School Honor Band.

Damien Crutcher conducts the 9th-10th grade Honor Band

Dr. Klena, who has overseen the Honor Band for many years, has guided the program through remarkable expansion — from a single ensemble to a statewide experience that now draws hundreds of eager high school students across Michigan.

“The 2025 Oakland University Honor Band was one of the most meaningful events of my time at Oakland and our largest yet,” Klena said. “With more than 400 nominations, 200 high school students accepted at 96 schools across the state, we expanded to two ensembles, allowing for developmentally appropriate repertoire and more focused recruitment. Hosting both groups concurrently at the Oakland Center created an impactful weekend that drew overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, families, and directors.

Dr. Kevin M. Geraldi conducts the 11th-12th grade Honor Band

“This event remains a cornerstone of my teaching and service, reflecting my commitment to inclusive, meaningful music-making and the strong community at the heart of our instrumental program,” she added. “And none of this is possible without an incredible team and faculty that believes in the vision and purpose of such an important event.”

The Honor Band continue to be a vital bridge between Oakland University and Michigan’s music education community. The weekend offers students a high-level musical challenge while inviting families and teachers to experience OU’s welcoming campus environment.

“Providing meaningful music-making opportunities like the OU Honor Bands connects the university to its community through shared artistic experiences that inspire and educate,” Klena said. “These opportunities allow young musicians to engage with university faculty and guest artists, fostering growth, mentorship and a sense of belonging. They also strengthen community partnerships and highlight the university’s commitment to accessibility, creativity and lifelong learning through music.”

Anonymous feedback collected from families, students and directors after the event highlighted the weekend’s strong impact, with many praising the 2025 High School Honor Band for its organization, musical rigor and welcoming atmosphere. One participant shared, “I expected to have fun, but even my expectations were exceeded. Fantastic experience.” Another noted, “This experience helped me understand what it takes to become a successful musician. I truly enjoyed it.” Others expressed similar enthusiasm, saying, “I absolutely loved my conductor!” and “Y’all put the HONOR in Honor Band!” A director added, “My students said this was the best OU Honor Band they’ve been to so far.”

As demand continues to grow — with some years seeing more than 300 students turned away — OU is exploring future expansion, including the potential launch of a High School Jazz Honor Band and a Middle School Honor Band.

For now, the 2025 High School Honor Band stands as a celebration of musical excellence, community connection and Oakland University’s ongoing commitment to supporting and inspiring the next generation of Michigan musicians.

“This event is about far more than a single concert,” Klena said. “It is about building relationships, nurturing young talent, and showing students that they belong here.”