Hillcrest High School senior Liyah Jackson represented her school with pride this month performing with the District 1 Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) Senior Band at Elmhurst University.
Out of more than 500 students from across the Chicagoland area who auditioned, only 100 were selected to participate — and Jackson proudly earned her place among the elite group of musicians.
Jackson, who plays the euphonium, began preparing for the highly competitive audition process in September.
“I spent hours in the practice room with my metronome or working with my lesson instructor,” said Jackson. “It means a lot to be selected. All the work I’ve put in these past four years really means something and made an impact.”
Hillcrest Band Director Tiffney Chaney expressed her admiration for Jackson’s hard work and musical growth.
“I am very proud of Liyah’s acceptance and participation in the ILMEA Honor Band,” said Chaney. “Liyah worked very hard on her audition, and her hard work paid off. While there have been times when she wasn’t confident in her abilities, I have always seen her potential. I’ve watched her grow into not only a strong musician but a person, and I am proud to be her director. I see great things for her beyond high school.”
Jackson, who began playing the euphonium the summer before her freshman year, has been an active member of the Hillcrest Band throughout high school. She credits the program for helping her find a sense of belonging and community.
As she looks ahead to graduation, Jackson hopes to attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) — with Florida A&M University (FAMU) as her top choice — where she plans to major in psychology while continuing her musical journey in both marching and concert band.
Hillcrest High School and Bremen High School District 228 proudly celebrate Jackson’s outstanding accomplishment and the dedication she has shown as a student, musician, and leader.
