Rising Star Showcase

Details about the 2027 Rising Star Showcase will be announced here soon!

The Rising Star Showcase is a competitive performance program designed to offer talented music students from Chicago’s South Suburbs a chance to perform before a live audience. Past recipients have gone on to great musical success, including maintaining active professional careers in music and securing collegiate scholarships in the arts.

Albert M. Jackson – Master of Ceremonies
Former Director, South Holland Master Chorale

2026 RISING STAR PERFORMERS – Click here for the 2026 Press Release

Levana Chen, violin
Annie Ford, trumpet
Flower Jebo, violin
Elly Jeon, B-flat clarinet
Sophie McManus, french horn
Lillian Pearson, flute
Bonnie Rickman, violin
Liam Viebach, piano

APPLICATION / AUDITION INFORMATION
Applications are accepted for solos (with or without accompaniment), duets, trios, or quartets.  Piano accompaniment is available upon request. Applicants must provide all contact and musical information along with a sample audition/performance recording to be considered. A 45-minute virtual coaching session with a member of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will be set up with all selected students.

ABOUT THE FRIENDS OF THE IPO
The Friends of the IPO is a volunteer group that supports the orchestra in a number of ways, including sponsoring the Rising Star Showcase, hosting fundraising activities, helping with mailings, and other activities. 

Archived Performances
2026 Concert
2026 Program