MACOMB, Illinois – Western Illinois University music professors and students attended the 2025 Illinois Music Education Conference, an annual event hosted at Peoria Civics Center from Jan. 29 through Feb. 1.
The purpose of IMEC is to foster a common love for music and education. It is where the All-State rehearsal and performance occurs for those who excel in their vocal/instrument group during the Illinois Music Education Association. The students who demonstrate a level of excellence in their vocal/instrument group during ILMEA are chosen to perform at IMEC.
There are classes offered for current and future teachers at the convention. For music education majors, it offers an opportunity to engage with colleagues and make connections.
“IMEC is an opportunity to network with other music educators or prospective music educators, bounce ideas off of each other and attend professional development clinics to enhance and expand our knowledge of the profession,” Mars Shufelt, a freshman education major with a choral focus, said.
WIUwas involved at IMEC with Music Professor Brian Winnie conducting the All-State choir and a table set up in the exhibit hall run by professors and students.
Music professors from WIU also presented as part of the conference. The presentations included:
- All-State Jazz Band Rhythm Section Clinic: Whitney Ashe, Matt Hughes, Kevin Nichols, George Turner
- Differentiating Instruction for Students with Special Needs in the Inclusive Music Setting: Gina Yi
- MMM: The Three M’s; Jason Hawkins
- Small Ensembles, Big Impact: Lamoine Brass Quintet
IMEC offers opportunities for musicians of all levels and is not limited to just music education majors.
“All are welcome. Invite your education friends, invite them to explore the convention center, attend the classes [and] participate in the activities. I really think they’d have an amazing time. Music education is for all ages and all teachers,” Karol Seesh, a junior music education major with an instrumental focus, said.
The 2026 IMEC will take place from Jan. 28-31. Registration is required and more information can be found at https://ilmea.org/imecinfo.
