- Book your Hotel Room
- View the afternoon Excursions
- View the Performing Ensembles
Greetings and WELCOME TO CHICAGO!
On behalf of the 2026 Chicago Planning Committee—including Scott Casagrande, Alex Kaminsky, and myself—along with ABA President Roy Holder and wife, June, we are thrilled to welcome you to the vibrant and iconic city of Chicago, Illinois for the 91st Annual Convention of the American Bandmasters Association, March 3–8, 2026.
Our convention headquarters will be the luxurious Swissotel Chicago, located in the heart of downtown along the Chicago River, just steps from Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile. With stunning views of Lake Michigan and first-class accommodations, the Swissotel will provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable week of music and fellowship.
If you are flying, Chicago is served by two major airports—O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW)—both offering convenient ground transportation options, including taxis, rideshare services, and shuttles directly to the hotel. For those driving, the Swissotel offers valet parking (not included in the room rate). There are numerous parking garages available nearby, but would suggest using the Millenium Park garages and website to reserve parking in advance at reduced rates.
Chicago offers an incredible food scene, boasting everything from world-renowned fine dining to famous deep-dish pizza. We hope you take advantage of the many establishments within walking distance or short uber from the hotel as you venture into the city for culinary adventures.
We are also excited to offer afternoon excursions to some of Chicago’s top cultural attractions. Planned activities include:
- A Wendella Chicago Architectural River Cruise showcasing the city’s legendary skyline
- A docent-led tour of the Art Institute of Chicago
- A delicious Chicago Pizza Tour with samples from the city’s iconic pizzerias
- The exciting Chicago Crime Tour exploring the city’s storied past
- A visit to Navy Pier, featuring the Centennial Wheel and Flyover Chicago
- A fun-filled Barrel Run Bus experience of Chicago’s breweries and distilleries
The concert lineup will feature some of the finest ensembles in the country performing at the acclaimed Harris Theater for Music and Dance, located just steps from our hotel:
- “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band
- University of Illinois Wind Symphony
- Western Michigan University Wind Symphony
- Wheaton Municipal Band
- Lockport Township High School Wind Symphony
- Incidental music throughout the week provided by students and faculty from VanderCook College of Music
Roy, June, and our entire planning team are thrilled to welcome you to Chicago for the 91st Convention of the American Bandmasters Association. We can’t wait to share this incredible experience with you in March!
Warm regards,
Brian Covey
Chair, 2026 ABA Convention – Chicago
View the Chicago Excursions
View the Performing Ensembles
Book your hotel room – CLICK HERE
Start Date: March 3, 2026 | End Date: March 8, 2026
The Swissotel Chicago
323 E. Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: (312) 565-0565
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