On Friday, January 30, eighth grader Annika Jackson will perform in the Illinois Music Educators Association (ILMEA) Junior All-State Choir. Approximately 20,000 students from across the state audition each year for the opportunity to participate in the All-State Festival, which takes place during the annual Illinois Music Educators Conference. This year, Annika was one of 2,000 students selected to perform in one of the festival’s instrumental or choral ensembles. She will join 150 other middle school musicians as a member of the Junior Chorus.
Miss Mateski, our student teacher in the music room, created a set of interview questions for Annika to answer about her All-State experience.
What do you enjoy most about choir? I enjoy the growth I experience. It’s rewarding to work hard on a piece of music, tackle challenging parts, and then see that work pay off in a concert.
How long have you been singing? I have been singing ever since I was little. I have always loved singing and I have been in choir for 2 years now.
What does it mean to you to be selected for all-state? It is such an honor to be selected for all-state. The dedication and auditions have really paid off.
What piece are you most excited to perform? The piece I am most excited to perform is Heartbeat. It has a really good message and I get to sing in a different language which I don't get to do a lot.
What are you most excited for in this experience? I am most excited to learn more about singing and music in general. I am also excited to meet new people from all around the state and make great memories.
Congratulations Annika! We know you’ll represent Seneca Grade School well!
