Joliet District 86 Junior High Student to Perform in Illinois All-State Band

Congratulations to Washington Academy eighth-grade student musician Julia Yanchick who is selected to perform in the inaugural Junior High All-State Band at the Illinois Music Education Association Conference in Peoria, Illinois on January 28-31, 2026 playing the euphonium. She is a member of the Washington Junior High School Symphonic Band directed by teacher R. Scott Barnas and participates in the Joliet Public Schools District 86 All City Band directed by Mr. Barnas and teacher Laura Armstrong. In addition, this talented student plays the piano and trombone in the Washington Junior High School Jazz Band.

“It is exciting that Julia was selected to perform in the inaugural Illinois Junior High All-State Band,” said Joliet Public Schools District 86 Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse. “I am so proud that the District offers a rich and robust music program with many opportunities for students to thrive.”

Julia was one of over 23,000 students throughout the state of Illinois to submit a recorded video last fall auditioning for the All-State Band, Choir, and Orchestra music ensembles. Julia will join only eight students from Illinois who were selected to play the euphonium in the Junior High All-State Band ensemble.

The junior high band students will perform five pieces during the Junior High All-State Concert at the Carver Arena at the Peoria Civic Center during the Illinois Music Education Association Conference. Over 12,000 students, educators, parents, and music education industry vendors are expected to attend.