Zachary Bodnar CHS Class of 2018
Zachary Bodnar, a Collinsville High School senior, represented CHS in the Bass I Section of the Illinois Music Educators Association (ILMEA) All-State Chorus at the Illinois Music Education Conference, January 23-29, 2018 in Peoria, IL.
According to Lisa Cleveland, CHS Vocal Music teacher, 25,000 music students from across the state auditioned for an opportunity to perform in state band and choir ensembles. Fifteen-hundred students were chosen. Five CHS junior and senior vocal music students advanced to district, but only Zach prevailed all the way to the All-State Chorus performance.
“That is quite an honor!” said Mrs. Cleveland.
Zach said the experience was a little intimidating upon arrival at the conference because he did not know anyone in his ensemble. However, his nerves were quickly calmed because, “I enjoy getting to share the gift of music with others. Through music, you gain so much and get to meet people.”
Zach is considering offers from several colleges for the fall. He plans to major in music education and Spanish.
ILMEA “exists to advocate for universal access to comprehensive music education; deliver exemplary professional development for educators; and provide outstanding musical experiences for all Illinois learners facilitated by licensed music educators.”
While the students spent two days rehearsing for their Saturday performance, their accompanying music educators attended a professional conference. Over 10,000 people participate in the annual IMEC conference.