ILMEA Auditions

Welcome

Welcome to the Jones College Prep Band ILMEA Audition page! Whether you're auditioning for the first time or returning after a previous season, this page is your one-stop resource for everything you need to prepare for the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District auditions.

Here you'll find audition/practice materials, important dates, registration information, and answers to frequently asked questions. This page will be updated throughout the audition season, so check back often.

ILMEA Auditions

Important ILMEA Dates!

ILMEA Practice Resources

 Why Audition?

Auditioning for ILMEA is one of the best opportunities available to high school musicians.

Students who participate will:

• Develop stronger individual musicianship.

• Set meaningful musical goals.

• Receive recognition for their hard work and dedication.

• Perform alongside some of the best student musicians in the district.

• Gain valuable audition experience that will benefit future honor bands, college auditions, scholarships, and other performance opportunities.

Whether your goal is to earn a place in the District Festival, qualify for the All-State Festival, or simply challenge yourself to become a better musician, we encourage every interested student to audition.

2026–2027 Audition Timeline

May

• ILMEA releases audition materials.

Summer

• Begin learning scales and etudes.

• Establish a consistent practice routine.

August–September

• Work with your band director on audition preparation.

• Record practice performances and seek feedback.

October

• Finalize audition recordings and complete all registration requirements.

November

• District Festival and auditions.

Specific deadlines will be posted here as soon as they are announced by ILMEA.

Audition Materials

The official audition requirements include:

• Required scales

• Commissioned etude

• Additional required etudes or excerpts (instrument dependent)

Students should always use the current year's official ILMEA audition materials. Links to the appropriate materials for each instrument are provided on the individual instrument resource pages.

Practice Resources

Each instrument has its own resource page containing:

• Required audition music

• Practice recordings

• Demonstration videos

• Practice tips

• Suggested tempos

• Common performance challenges

• Additional study resources

Select your instrument to begin preparing for your audition.

Registration

Students interested in auditioning should notify a band director as early as possible.

Before your audition, be sure to:

• Register with the band directors by the announced deadline.

• Obtain all required audition materials.

• Prepare all required scales and etudes.

• Review audition procedures and recording requirements.

• Ask questions early—don't wait until the week of the deadline!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can audition?

Any Jones College Prep band student who is interested in challenging themselves and preparing the required audition materials.

Do I have to audition?

No. ILMEA auditions are optional, but all motivated students are encouraged to participate.

Can freshmen audition?

Yes! Students in all grade levels are welcome to audition.

How much should I practice?

Consistent practice is more important than long practice sessions. Aim to work on your audition music several days each week, focusing on tone, rhythm, technique, and musical expression.

Where can I find my music?

Your instrument's resource page contains links to the official audition materials, practice recordings, and additional resources.

Who should I ask if I need help?

Your band directors are here to help. If you have questions about music, registration, or preparing for the audition, please reach out as soon as possible.