Alyssa Arkin named new WSCB Musical Director
Ben Simon
Alyssa Arkin has been named the sixth Musical Director of the West Suburban Concert Band, board President Hal Mulderink announced. Arkin was elected to the position by the membership of the band following a competitive search process. Her appointment is effective September 1st, 2026, when she will begin leading the band for its 70th season.
“I am honored and excited to work with the fantastic musicians of the West Suburban Concert Band as the ensemble enters its 70th season!” Arkin said. “I look forward to becoming a part of the team as we build upon the strong legacy of the band, and continue to grow in musicianship and community.”
Alyssa Arkin has been named the sixth Musical Director of the West Suburban Concert Band.
Arkin is a band director for the Glen Ellyn public school district and a woodwind instructor at Buffalo Grove High School. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Music from the University of Florida. Arkin has worked as a music educator in Illinois and Florida, and is active as a clinician, adjudicator, and private tutor.
“We are pleased to welcome Alyssa Arkin as the new Musical Director of the West Suburban Concert Band. Her energy, enthusiasm, and love of music has impressed all of the members of the band.” Mulderink said. “We are excited to begin this next chapter of our proud tradition of bringing music to the Western Suburbs under her leadership.”
Arkin’s appointment follows the retirement last year of Henry “Hank” Hiorns, who stepped down after leading the band for thirty years. Mr. Hiorns was honored by the band at a banquet dinner in April. Cathie Kukec, who served as Interim Musical Director for the band’s 2025-’26 season, will return to her prior role as Assistant Director.
About the West Suburban Concert Band
Founded in 1957 and now in its sixty-ninth season, the West Suburban Concert Band is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting music in the Chicagoland area. The all-volunteer ensemble includes students, working professionals, and retirees from all walks of life. Based in La Grange, the band performs concerts for public ceremonies, park districts, retirement homes, patriotic organizations, and other events in the western suburbs.