For the first time in its 76-year history, the prestigious Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference has invited a band from Hawaii to perform.

The 100-member Nāulu Winds community band of University of Hawaii-West Oahu will head to Chicago to perform in front of an audience of more than 16,000 musicians and band and orchestra directors from around the world.

Comprised of students from throughout the University of Hawaii system, community musicians, music educators, aspiring music educators, and select high school students, the band is holding a special “Chicago Sendoff Concert” to celebrate the achievement and express their gratitude to the community.

The concert will be held on Dec. 11 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Michael Nakasone Performing Arts Center (the former Pearl City Cultural Center) located at the top of Waimano Home Road.

They will perform the complete Midwest program while taking the opportunity to recognize the many supporters and donors who have generously contributed to their journey. They will also perform several Hawaiian music pieces such as “Heha Waipiʻo” by Sam Liʻa Kalainaina from the “Eddie Kamae Songbook” and a new symphonic number, “E Ala E,” that was commissioned by local band directors.

The Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference will be held Dec. 18 to 21 in Chicago and the Nāulu Winds will perform as the featured group on Dec. 19. While there, members will also learn from top music clinicians from around the world.