While Bloomington-Normal is a long way from being a Chicago or St. Louis, how it grows compared to similar midsized cities will reflect on the quality of life of the approximately 145,000 people living in McLean County. Hammel said that while the Bloomington-Normal area has done pretty well at managing growth, there's room for improvement. Take Veterans Parkway, he said. Like it or not, it is our Main Street, and it is not a pleasant place. Membership to this band is by audition only and is open only to ISU students.
Many students are music majors and minors.
The Symphonic Band is comprised of approximately 75 wind and percussion players from across campus, presenting two concerts each semester. Size of this ensemble varies depending on the number of people interested in playing. Currently there are two jazz bands at ISU with plans for a third next year. The ISU Concert Choir has been in existence for about half a century. The large group often performs with the other university choirs and the orchestra in joint concerts.