Waukegan High School’s music program has once again solidified its place among the top programs in Illinois. This season, students across band, choir, and orchestra combined for a 3rd place finish in the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class AA.

Annual music program rankings are based on a combination of individual and group performances at IHSA competitions. Students are evaluated through Solo and Ensemble contests, while ensembles are assessed during Organizational contests, with all points contributing to a final overall score.

Waukegan High School earned 741 total points, making it the highest-ranked music program in Lake County. Final results were announced by the IHSA last week.

During the Solo and Ensemble contest, a total of 101 Waukegan High School performances earned a Division I rating, the highest possible distinction, either as soloists or as part of a small ensemble.

In addition, four Waukegan High School performances received “Best of Day” honors during the IHSA Solo and Ensemble contest earlier this spring: Amy Ramirez for a String Bass solo, Carlos Astudillo for a Baritone Saxophone solo, Celeste Smith for a Clarinet solo, and a Mixed Brass Ensemble featuring Alexander Gomez, Damian Zavala, Damien Izoteco, Isaias Hernandez-Ramos, and Yandery Gaytan.

In the Organizational Contest, the WHS Concert Orchestra received a Division I, or “Superior,” rating.

The WHS band (5th place), orchestra (1st place), and choir (11th place) each placed in the top half of their respective categories at the Solo and Ensemble contest.

“Our students put in so much time, effort, and heart into their music, and it shows. Watching our students develop as performers and as individuals is what makes this work so special. This recognition is something our entire district community can be proud of,” said Ms. Lori Massimo, Fine Arts Coordinator for District 60. 

The WHS music program is led by Mr. Connor Allison and Dr. Erin Hansen (orchestras), Mr. David Grayson and Mr. Eduardo Ortiz (bands), and Ms. Jennifer Wagner and Mrs. Emily Heslinga (choirs).

Below is the music program’s overall state ranking in recent years:

2025 – 3rd
2024 – 3rd
2023 – 3rd
2022 – 6th
2020 – 7th
2019 – 5th
2018 – 3rd
2017 – 5th
2016 – 2nd
2015 – 3rd
2014 – 5th
2013 – 8th
2012 – 7th