Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 is proud to recognize the exceptional musical accomplishments of its middle school students who have earned placement in the 2026 Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 7 Festival.
Selection for this prestigious festival is among the highest honors available to middle school musicians in Illinois. As the largest and one of the most competitive ILMEA districts in the state, District 7 attracts more than 1,000 talented band, choir, and orchestra students representing over 50 junior high schools throughout the North Suburban region. Through a highly selective audition process, students are chosen to participate in honors ensembles that recognize outstanding musicianship, preparation, and dedication to their craft.
“Our students have demonstrated tremendous dedication and commitment to their musical growth, and we are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished,” says Alyssa LaTragna, choir director at Lincoln Middle School.
Erica Faulhaber, Instrumental Music Curriculum Specialist, adds, “Being selected for an ILMEA ensemble is an extraordinary accomplishment, particularly given the highly competitive audition process. This experience goes far beyond the recognition itself, providing students with the opportunity to perform alongside talented young musicians from across the region, learn from distinguished guest conductors, and further develop their musicianship, confidence, and passion for music.”
The ILMEA District 7 Festival brings together some of the region's most accomplished young performers for a day of collaboration, musical growth, and exceptional ensemble performances. This year's Band, Choir, and Orchestra Festival will be held on Saturday, November 14, at Evanston Township High School.
District 64 congratulates all students selected for this distinguished honor and celebrates their commitment to musical excellence.
District 64 Students Selected for ILMEA Festival Ensembles:
- Tommy Balducci, Choir
- David Bekiares, Band
- Frankie Berger, Choir
- Rachel Born, Choir
- Conner Erickson, Choir
- Gabriela Firtulescu, Band
- Eliza Hinton, Choir
- Ellie Hughes, Choir
- Alexandra Marquez, Choir
- Olivia Moise, Choir
- Kaitlin O'Connor, Choir
- Evelyn Ortiz, Choir
- Emma Packer, Orchestra
- Simon Reuhs, Choir
- Neave Schroer, Orchestra
- Allison Silva, Choir
District 64 music teachers who instruct these talented students include: Elisabeth Ballinger, Natalie Briggs, Terry Broeker, Erica Faulhaber, Anne Fong, Max Hellermann, Ilona Hutter, Alyssa LaTragna, Sean Rybak, Ethan Soltys and Alex Teater.
About ILMEA:
The Illinois Music Educators Association (ILMEA) is a leading fine arts education organization in the U.S., providing students with valuable performance opportunities through district and state festivals that promote musical growth and excellence.