Arts

We congratulate Edie P. on being named Alternate Winner in the Senior Piano Division of the MTNA State Competition. This is a huge accomplishment, as it recognizes her as one of the top two student pianists in Illinois.

Per their website, the mission of MTNA (Music Teachers National Association) is to "advance the value of music study and music making to society and to support the professionalism of music teachers." Its competitions "provide educational experiences for students and teachers and to recognize exceptionally talented young artists."

Considered one of the most prestigious student music competitions in the country, MTNA attracts thousands of applicants who vie for state and national recognition. Edie's success comes from the commitment she has to her music and the hard work she puts in. Edie's mother also notes that her success "would not have been possible without Latin's support and teacher's understanding and flexibility." 

Edie also devotes time to giving back to the field she loves. She recently participated in a fundraising event with WFMT radio to support music programs in Chicago-area schools, and launched a mentorship initiative in partnership with the Chicago Center for Music Education.

We wish Edie continued success with her musical and philanthropic pursuits.

Learn about MTNA.
Learn about Chicago Center for Music Education.
Explore the Arts at Latin.

Nine talented Latin students have earned prestigious spots in the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District I ensembles.

Each year, ILMEA auditions attract some of the best young musicians and singers in the state, with only the top quartile of students who audition typically selected for the district-level ensembles. ILMEA’s District 1 is the largest and one of the most competitive districts in the state. Applicants undergo a rigorous evaluation of their technique and overall musicianship.

Congratulations to these Latin students for being selected:

Junior Band: Alexandra G. (8th grade) - flute, Alexandra Z. (6th grade) - flute

Junior Chorus: Payton A. (8th grade) - baritone, Theo K. (8th grade) - baritone

Senior Chorus: Ellen C. (11th grade) - alto I, Stella Tate R. (11th grade) - alto II, Theodore T. (12th grade) - bass II

9-10 Honor Chorus: Bridget B. (9th grade) - alto, Gianna B. (10th grade) - soprano

These artists will work with a master clinician/ensemble conductor and come together with other top musicians and singers in the state for festival performances. The Junior Festival will take place at Unity Junior High in Cicero on November 22, and the Senior Festival occurs on November 8 at Elmhurst University.

From the district-level ensembles, an elite group of students will be chosen to perform at the All-State Festival, which brings together some of the most outstanding young musicians and singers from across Illinois. All-State finalists will be announced later in 2025.

We applaud these students on this exceptional accomplishment and look forward to their upcoming performances.

Learn more about Illinois Music Education Association.
Explore the Arts at Latin.

Congratulations to Ike Barinholtz '95 and the cast of The Studio on their record-breaking Emmy wins!

This acclaimed comedy took home an astounding 13 Emmys, the most ever for a comedy series in a single season. With 23 nominations, it is also the most-nominated comedy debut in the history of the awards.

Hailed for it sharp satire, humorous delivery, dramatic cinematography, and impactful direction, the show is centered around a fictitious Hollywood studio and it's Head, played by Seth Rogan. Ike Barinholz plays his Vice President of Production, starring alongside Bryan Cranston and Catherine O'Hara. 

Launched in March 2025, The Studio has already gained a cult following and a second season has been scheduled.

The Emmy Awards were established in 1949 to honor the best in television and have since become a staple for industry recognition and a barometer of popular culture. We are proud of our Latin alum and this talented cast and crew!

Learn more about The Studio.

Congratulations to 12th grader Lyla G. for being recognized by Playbill.

Lyla's artwork for Latin’s 2022-23 production of "The Crucible" was featured as one of the “10 Creative Crucible PLAYBILLDER Covers” on Playbill’s official website. Through its PLAYBILLDER Spotlight, Playbill seeks to highlight theater programs that are "fostering the love of the performing arts in the next generation."

Playbill is an American monthly magazine for theatergoers. Established in 1884, the magazine has been a staple for theatergoers, featuring actor profiles, production photography, and special features. Its online version, launched in 1994, has helped the publication reach a wider audience.

We are so proud of Lyla for being recognized by this prestigious publication and for inspiring other students to pursue their passion for the arts.

To learn more about this recognition, visit Playbill.
To learn more about Arts at Latin School of Chicago, visit our Arts web page.