Talented Musicians from Warsaw and Nauvoo Shine at ILMEA Festival

A total of twenty-eight talented musicians from Nauvoo and Warsaw schools have been selected to perform at the annual Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) All District Band, Chorus, and Orchestra Festival. This prestigious event is set to take place on November 1, 2023, at Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. The students, representing both the Elementary Band, Senior Band, Junior Chorus, and Senior Chorus, have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in their preparations.

The directors of the participating bands and choruses, including Cody Collins of Warsaw High School, Karen Weirather, the High School Choral Director, and Madelyn Doran, the Choral Director at Nauvoo-Colusa Middle School, have expressed pride in their students’ accomplishments. Many of these exemplary musicians dedicated their summer to rehearsals and preparation for the ILMEA auditions.

Among those selected is Scott Allen, a senior trombonist at Warsaw High School, who has been playing the instrument for four years. He began his preparation in June, leading up to virtual auditions conducted in September. Allen expressed enthusiasm about performing at the festival, highlighting the rigorous practice required to qualify for the ILMEA district. He appreciated the support from Collins, who made time for individual coaching despite a busy schedule.

Students were tasked with recording solo performances of three pieces—a fast, upbeat selection, a slower lyrical piece, and scales. Allen shared his excitement about playing in a larger ensemble, stating, “It was a lot of fun. Playing with more people and instruments allows us to tackle more complicated pieces.”

Another talented musician, Gavin Jackson, a sophomore known for his skills with the tenor saxophone, also made the district for the second consecutive year. Jackson, who plays multiple saxophones, described the audition music as familiar. He enjoys performing with large groups and is grateful for the guidance provided by Collins, whom he referred to as an “amazing band director.”

Junior Ava Gibson, who is participating in the chorus as an Alto 1, described the preparation for her audition as extensive and challenging. She worked with Weirather over the summer, focusing on three song excerpts—including the piece “O Nata Lux”—two scales, and three triads. Gibson views her selection to perform at the ILMEA District 4 Festival as a significant honor. Reflecting on her experience, she noted, “Oh, it was so much fun. I met so many people. The conductor, Dr. James Henry from the University of St. Louis, Missouri, was wonderful; it was a great opportunity.”

Senior Dallin Garfield, who sings bass and tenor parts, also shared his experiences, noting that he began singing during his junior year after moving from Utah. Garfield focused his preparation on challenging pieces, including songs in Latin. He praised Dr. Henry for his high-energy direction, stating, “He made sure you knew your parts, especially the more complicated areas.” Garfield plans to pursue music further by participating in community choirs and performing in Handel’s Messiah this year.

The dedication and talent of these musicians not only highlight their individual achievements but also contribute significantly to the cultural richness of their communities in Nauvoo and Warsaw. The commitment and hard work displayed by these young artists are commendable, promising an evening of uplifting performances at the ILMEA festival. The faculty also deserve recognition for their role in mentoring these students and fostering their musical talents.

Congratulations to Allen, Jackson, Gibson, and Garfield, along with their peers, for their remarkable accomplishments, which enhance the musical landscape of their communities and inspire future generations of musicians.