ILMEA seeks to promote and celebrate research through the inclusion of our annual research poster session and spotlight presentation at the 2026 Illinois Music Education Conference. Research studies employing qualitative, quantitative, mixed, philosophical and historical methodologies will be considered for these sessions. Submissions of action research studies completed by music educators in their classrooms and rehearsal halls are encouraged!

ILMEA is now accepting applications for the position of bookkeeper!

The bookkeeper will be responsible for management of ILMEA financial records. This position will handle all accounting

transactions for a growing 501(c)3 organization on an annual nine month contract that runs from September 1 to May 31. Applicants should be experienced in accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll functions. This position is designed as a hybrid of in-office (Palos Heights, Illinois) and work-from-home.

ILMEA is excited for the inaugural Junior High All-State Band and Orchestra in January 2026 and the return of the Junior High All-State Chorus! As with any new program, we know that educators, administrators and parents will have many questions. This FAQ will help to address these questions so that everyone is as prepared as possible for this outstanding experience.

Available now on our website: a of all divisions’ audition material at both the junior and senior level for the 2025-2026 school year. This includes the newly commissioned junior wind and percussion etudes, senior wind and percussion etudes and junior strings etudes.

ILMEA is excited to announce the launch of our Presenter's Bureau, a network of expert clinicians dedicated to supporting music educators across Illinois. We are seeking talented presenters to apply to join our core team, offering professional development sessions both virtually and in-person. 

ILMEA is issuing an urgent call to action regarding HB1358 + Amendment 2, which severely restricts a school board's ability to request and renew physical education (PE) waivers. The House Education Committee voted the bill through to the house floor, despite the more than 2220 witness slips filed in opposition, as compared to the 395 witness slips in favor. The bill is now expected on the House floor. ILMEA urges you to take immediate action by contacting your legislators to vote “No” on this bill.

The Illinois State Board of Education is exploring changes to the Illinois School Report card, and the proposed accountability system does not have a clear plan for including the Fine Arts as an indicator for School Quality/Student Success (SQSS). We need Music Education Advocates to voice their support for how fine arts can be an impactful piece of reporting school quality and student success.

A look back on the fantastic clinics, performances, and events at the 2025 Illinois Music Education Conference. More photos will be added so stay tuned!

If you are looking to harness the power of your music department’s parents, friends and families, this concert program insert can give them great ideas to get started! It is available as both an image file or PDF so whether it is a digital or print program, you can get the word out to your community during your next performance.

The 2025-2026 ILMEA Remix Contest is ready for you! Check out the source material, stems and more.