LHS Has Record Number Of Musicians Selected As All-State Honorees

Lemont IL

22 February, 2022

12:34 PM

Description

LEMONT, IL — Lemont High School's music program had a record number of all-state performers this year. According to the school, Lemont placed a school-record six individuals on all-state performing ensembles, while another student was selected to participate in a prestigious seminar. All seven students participated at the 2022 Illinois Music Education Conference, which was held last month at the Peoria Civic Center, the school said. Hosted by the Illinois Music Education Association, the IMEC attracts the top performers from across the state, and includes guest conductors, seminars and a number of concert performances. Seniors Nathan McFarland (Bass I) and Aidan Meyer (Tenor II) each were selected for the All-State Chorus. Senior Jayne Pelen (Contrabass Clarinet) and junior Toni Sarussi (Bb Clarinet) each were chosen as part of the Honors Band. Sophomores Destina Sarussi (Flute) and Nora Zhou (Violin) were named to the Honors Orchestra. Destina Sarussi was recognized as first chair in her instrument. This also marked the first time in school history that siblings (Toni and Destina Sarussi) have been named to all-state performing ensembles in the same year, the school said. Lastly, junior Alyssa Greer was accepted to participate in the Future Music Educators Seminar, which was intended for students interested in pursuing careers as professional music educators, the school said. After virtual auditions and district festivals throughout the state, approximately 1,500 students were selected to participate in the ILMEA's 2022 All-State Student Programs. The six students who were part of the all-state performing ensembles capped their experience by performing in concerts that were led by distinguished conductors and educators from across the country, the school said.