In a world where music is a universal language, Barry Houser has made it his mission to connect with students and make a lasting impact on their lives through the Marching Illini.
A native of Florida, Houser grew up with a passion for music, particularly the marching band. He experimented with singing and playing the piano and keyboard in his childhood, eventually participating in marching bands in high school and college.
After completing his undergraduate studies, Houser worked as a teacher at public schools in Florida and Indiana before joining Eastern Illinois University, where he taught higher education.
It wasn’t until Houser came to the University of Illinois that his passion for music was reignited, and he began to pursue his dream of becoming a conductor.
Despite facing initial challenges, Houser persevered and eventually became the director of the Marching Illini in 2011.
As the director, Houser has been instrumental in shaping the band into the successful ensemble it is today, with over 400 members.
Under his leadership, the band has achieved numerous accolades, including playing on the NBC Today Show and in the ISSMA State Marching finals.
Houser’s approach to conducting is centered around listening to his students’ needs and learning what’s important to them.
He values making shows memorable while staying true to the band’s tradition.
Houser also puts a lot of emphasis on the behind-the-scenes work, such as arranging music for every instrument and creating different formations and flag designs.
As a testament to his dedication, Houser has been recognized as the associate director of bands, conductor of the wind orchestra, director of the Fighting Illini athletic bands, clinical associate professor, and the chair of the conducting area in the School of Music.
Despite his many accomplishments, Houser remains humble and dedicated to his students and the band.
“I get to work with truly amazing and talented students that come from a variety of backgrounds,” Houser said. “I feel very fortunate that I get to be part of their lives, and hopefully, I make a difference in theirs.”
Houser’s commitment to his students is reflected in his approach to the performance process, which is “extensive” and involves preparation for the next year starting immediately after the current season ends.
As he puts it, “I don’t feel like we’re coasting. I feel like we’re constantly tweaking and putting the entire program under the microscope.”
Houser’s dedication to the band has inspired many students, including Alex Hall, who became the drum major in 2024.
“He puts everyone first, whether it’s health, safety, a good experience,” Hall said. “He’s the perfect example of someone who gives a lot more than he gets. He’s very welcoming to everyone in the band as well as the community.”
Hall also praises Houser’s behind-the-scenes work, recognizing that he arranges music for every instrument and creates different formations and flag designs.
“He’s always putting in so much behind-the-scenes work that nobody ever talks about or knows because he’s humble,” Hall said. “He doesn’t share any of that, really.”
Houser’s success has also inspired other students, such as Lia Pappas, who joined the band as a junior and credits Houser with making her transition into the band easy.
“(Houser’s) not just someone who knows how to teach, but (he’s) someone who treats every member of the ensemble like they’re a member of the ensemble, and they’re a human with real feelings and real issues,” Pappas said.
“He makes everybody feel at home within the band, and like we’re all a family.”
Houser’s leadership has created a culture of musicality and community within the Marching Illini, serving as a driving force for the band.
As a testament to his dedication, Houser has been recognized as one of the best directors the band could have had.
“He is probably one of the best directors we could have ever had,” Hall said.