" The common threads that exists in the thousands of alumni that have played with the Joliet High School Bands are: Loyalty, Dedication, Devotion, its History, and that all important word…Perseverance. For it is the very time when the music seems too difficult – almost impossible – that we grow as human beings, passing through that time and persevering to our goals. These things truly have been the Joliet High School Bands’ past, The Joliet High School Bands’ present, and surely will be its future."
– Ted Lega (Centennial Celebration Alumni Band Concert, July 2012)

Ted Lega graduated from JT in 1962, serving as student director and first clarinet in JT band. In 1969, Mr. Lega was appointed as the third director of bands at Central Campus. During the next 33 years, he continued the tradition of excellence with his Symphonic, Swing and Marching Bands, receiving countless awards and honors. Mr. Lega's bands have received the Honor Band award at the University of Illinois Superstate Band Festival 14 times. The groups have also been named Grand Champions 11 times at Illinois State University as well as twice at the Opryland Music Festival. Mr. Lega's peers have recognized him to be among the finest high school band conductors. In 1987, Lega was recognized as the Outstanding Chicagoland Music Educator, and in 1995 he was elected to the American Bandmasters Association, joining his predecessors, Mr. McAllister and Mr. Houseknecht. In 2002, Lewis University awarded Mr. Lega the St. Genesius Award - patron saint of arts for recognition of dedication and achievement as music educator, band director and orchestra leader. He also received the Lifetime Achievement Award in memory of John Paynter, director of bands at Northwestern University; honorary doctorate of music from Vandercook College and the Leonardo Da Vinci Award for performing arts from Order of Sons of Italy in America.