Symphony Guild Scholarship Auditions Showcase Emerging Talent

The Illinois Symphony Guild of Springfield's annual Scholarship Auditions once again demonstrated the remarkable depth of young musical talent across the region. Twenty-one students registered for this year’s event, with twenty ultimately performing for the adjudicators.

Representing a wide range of ages and instruments, participants reflected the diversity and vitality of the area’s developing musicians. Judges Doug Hahn and Dale Rogers—both highly respected in the region’s musical community—brought thoughtful, discerning expertise to the evaluation process.

Behind the scenes, the smooth execution of the day was the result of careful coordination. Dee Dee Gain managed the complex scheduling puzzle, made all the more challenging by concurrent solo and ensemble auditions in Petersburg. After the performances, she also handled the distribution of judges’ sheets and prepared letters of congratulations, appreciation, and encouragement for every participant. Onsite logistics were overseen by Jamie Streamwood, who coordinated student flow, supervised practice room use, and ensured that each performer moved through the process with clarity and confidence.

This year also marked the debut of an expanded scoring system, shifting from a 1–5 scale to a more detailed 1–10 range. The change allowed judges to more precisely recognize nuance—particularly important in a year when the margins between top scores were exceptionally narrow.

2026 Scholarship Winners

In the Junior Division (Grades 5–8), three pianists and violinists rose to the top of a highly competitive field.

• 1st Place ($400): Jeremy Gao, 7th grade, piano — Score: 120
• 2nd Place ($350): Raymond Chau, 7th grade, piano — Score: 119
• 3rd Place ($300): Silas Lundeen, 6th grade, violin — Score: 117

Honorable Mentions were awarded to:

• Elsa O’Connell, 7th grade, violin — Score: 109
• Magdalena Osterhuber, 7th grade, violin — Score: 106

In the Senior Division (Grades 9–12), students impressed across a wide range of instruments—from marimba to clarinet.

• 1st Place ($400): Isaac Finn, 11th grade, marimba — Score: 120
• 2nd Place ($350): Sebastian Kurtz, 11th grade, piano — Score: 118
• 3rd Place ($300): Brenna Kerr, 9th grade, Bb clarinet — Score: 115

Honorable Mentions recognized:

• Emily Shelter, 11th grade, flute — Score: 112
• Aidan Beck, 11th grade, bassoon — Score: 111

In every respect, the Scholarship Auditions celebrated dedication, artistry, and the Guild’s enduring commitment to supporting the next generation of musicians.