Senior Sarah Benaitis Earns Second Consecutive Selection to ILMEA District 1 Band

Providence Catholic student Sarah Benaitis has been selected to the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 1 Music Festival Band for flute, earning recognition for her musical talent, dedication, and years of hard work. The honor marks another exciting opportunity for Sarah to perform alongside talented student musicians from across the district.

“I was initially really shocked when I heard that I had been selected,” Sarah shared. “I did not think very highly of my audition, but I’m so grateful it was accepted.”

Sarah, who plays both the flute and piccolo, spent six months preparing for the competitive audition process. Beginning in May, she worked closely with her private music teacher, dedicating countless hours to perfecting her scales and two musical excerpts before submitting her audition.

While Sarah has been playing the flute for 11 years, her journey with music hasn’t always been easy. In fact, she admits that she struggled to find her passion for the instrument during her early years and even stepped away from playing for a period of time. Everything changed when she began working with a new teacher who helped her discover a genuine love for music.

“She has helped me learn to love the beauty in music, and I have had a great passion for it since,” Sarah explained.

That renewed passion has opened the door to some incredible musical experiences. In addition to her involvement in the Providence Catholic band program, Sarah performs with an orchestra outside of school, where she serves as principal flute. Through that experience, she has gained valuable opportunities to perform alongside accomplished musicians while continuing to develop her own skills.

Sarah also credits her experiences at Providence Catholic with helping her grow as both a musician and performer.

“My experience in Providence’s band has helped me prepare to play with people of all different years of experience,” she shared. “My friends and old directors have encouraged me greatly, helping me to build my confidence in playing.”

Having previously participated in ILMEA, Sarah is especially excited to return to the festival and collaborate with a new group of musicians who share her passion for music.

“I am incredibly excited to perform in ILMEA again,” Sarah said. “I look forward to meeting new people who are very talented.”

For Sarah, this recognition represents more than a successful audition. It reflects years of perseverance, the encouragement of dedicated teachers, and a love for music that has continued to grow.

Congratulations, Sarah, on this outstanding achievement! Your Providence Catholic family is proud of you, and we look forward to seeing you continue to share your musical talents!