John Philip Sousa considered the University of Illinois band program to be the finest collegiate band in the world, largely due to his close friendship with its director, A. Austin Harding. To show his appreciation, Sousa composed the “University of Illinois March,” premiering it on this day - June 17, 1929 on NBC Radio. 97 years later, you can hear this piece on June 25th at the Illinois Summer Band concert at 7pm - Illinois Main Quad! #band158 | #whereitstarted