NUMBALUMS at Northwestern University

05/24/2026

Congrats to Mr. Farris on his retirement! Last weekend, we celebrated Mr. Farris with his final Concert Band concert, a lovely reception, and a celebratory happy hour. It was great to see so many NUMBALUMS there to say a big THANK YOU to Mr. Farris for his years of dedicated service to Northwestern. Happy Retirement, Mr. Farris!

(videos in the comments)

05/21/2026

05/04/2026

Hey NUMBALUMS! There are lots of great events happening in May and YOU should be there!!!

Friday, May 15, 7:30pm - Mr. Farris's last concert! Mr. Farris will conduct the Concert Band in his final concert at Northwestern. The concert starts at 7:30pm at Pick-Staiger. Tickets are $6. Reception to follow. You can purchase your tickets here: https://music.northwestern.edu/events/concert-band-4
If you're unable to join in person, you can access the live stream here: https://www.music.northwestern.edu/live/pick

Saturday, May 16, 3-6pm - Mr. Farris's retirement celebration! There will be a casual get together at Five and dime in Evanston to celebrate Mr. Farris's retirement. This is a casual event, so swing by as you're able. Light snacks will be provided and a cash bar will be available. Please RSVP here if you plan to attend: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdpT3RhjMnzKHm1vdkwvpViXgEdK--M2BIW7QjDD5oQ6JU_9A/viewform

Wednesday, May 27, 6:30-9:30pm - NUMB Senior Celebration! Come celebrate the NUMB class of 2026 and welcome them to our NUMBALUM ranks. The event will take place at Five and dime. Your $20 ticket gets you a dinner, a drink ticket, and lots of P&G! Please RSVP here if you plan to attend: https://events.ard.northwestern.edu/en/Dn8g9BS7/g/ZbQ4t3v2EQ/numbalums-welcome-numb-class-of-2026-5a65UzfpIEb/overview

We hope to see you soon, NUMBALUMS!

04/08/2026

Welcome to our new Director of Athletic Bands, Michael Parker!

Michael Parker has been appointed Director of Athletic Bands at Northwestern University beginning in July. He will lead the University’s athletic band programs, including the Northwestern University "Wildcat" Marching Band and pep bands. He will also conduct the Concert Band and teach courses in the Bienen School of Music.

"His outstanding musicianship, Big Ten experience, respect for tradition, and forward-looking vision make him an exceptional addition to the Northwestern University Bands faculty,” said Director of Bands Robert Taylor.

Read more: 🔗 http://spr.ly/6184B6a74I

03/19/2026

Dan Farris will soon take his final bow at a May farewell concert and retire at the end of the academic year.

03/09/2026

This past Wednesday, we celebrated another “last” in Mr. Farris’s retirement year: his last home basketball game!

01/30/2026