Lincoln-Way North Student Takes Second Place in Music Competition

Lincoln-Way North junior Jack Kotze is among the winners of the 2014-2015 Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) state wide Student Composition Contest.

Over 100 original compositions were submitted by students from junior high schools and high schools throughout Illinois, and were judged by a panel of active composers and professional musicians.

Jack won second place for his Half Nelson solo in the Jazz Improvisation category. His music teacher is Kirk Hickman, director of bands, at Lincoln-Way North High School.

“I created a solo with a play-a-long track and submitted it to ILMEA. I was pretty surprised to be selected; anyone from the state could submit a recording. I thought the recording was good, and I was able to get Mr. Maylone (LWN parent) to help me record it. I knew I was in good hands,” said Kotze.

Jack continued, “When I learn a tune to improvise over, I start with the chord progression very slowly, so it comes more naturally. I practiced my submission this way.”

The student composers will be honored at an awards ceremony on January 31, 2015 as part of the Illinois Music Education Conference in Peoria, Illinois. The contest is sponsored by PreSonus and Ableton, providing first place winners with computer programs in composition, and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, providing scholarships for all winners.

“Jack is in constant pursuit of progressing his abilities as an improviser and musician,” said Kirk Hickman, North Director of Bands. ”I’m not surprised he was selected for this recognition when you consider the dedication and study this particular student has already displayed at such a young age. I’m very proud to call him my student.”