Remembering Former NIU Band Director Frank Bibb
By Claudine Trudeau '92, HMBAN Silverette Rep

Former NIU Band Director Frank Bibb 

Frank Bibb served as NIU's band director from the mid-'80s to the mid-'90s. He also directed the NIU All-University Concert Band, welcoming all students regardless of their major. 

Frank was originally from Topeka, Kansas, and graduated from Wichita State University and the University of Kansas. He proudly served our nation as a U.S. Army Bandsman and was selected as principal clarinet in the esteemed U.S. Military Academy Band at West Point, NY, and U.S. Army Field Band, DC.

He was a force—commanding and charismatic, energetic and sharp-witted. He had high standards, and he pushed his students to reach their full potential. He was an equally caring leader who was fiercely dedicated to his students and their success. Amidst focused rehearsals, he would break the tension by creating humorous moments with many memorable quotes like, "If you're on time, you're late!" and "Work hard, play hard!"

Although he wasn’t particularly tall, he had a very strong presence on the field and everyone stopped and listened when he spoke. He strove for excellence and made us rehearse again and again until we were as close to perfection as possible. 

During my 1987-1990 tenure, I recall the band being very large with 40 Silverettes and a similar size Color Guard. He used to call the Silverettes, the “Silver Bells," which made us giggle. I think he got a kick out of that.

Many of our best memories were created during band camp held at the start of school, Thursday night practices in the stadium, and special performance opportunities. My favorite trip was performing at a Bears/Packers game at Lambeau Field on our way back from a performance at the University of Minnesota. Another highlight was the Marching Band Banquet and Awards Dinner at the Lake Lawn Resort. A reflection of his dynamic leadership and commitment, Frank encouraged the various entities within the band to get to know each other like family. 

At the end of each year, Frank directed a concert performance of the season’s music at the Boutell Memorial Concert Hall in the Music building, where he had the band play the season’s songs for parents and friends. He always let one random person in the audience direct the fight song, which was entertaining. There is a link to a recording of the 1998 concert in the NIU Marching Band Facebook group. You can hear him describe songs and tell stories, making the audience laugh. At the end, he received a standing ovation.
 

Frank Bibb will be honored with a special song dedication during the Huskie Marching Band’s halftime performance on Homecoming, October 4, 2025.