HHS Junior Cain Simmons was selected to represent Herrin High School in the prestigious 2026 Illinois All-State Choir. From January 29 to 31, Cain performed alongside 287 of the top-scoring high school singers from all across the state. The students gathered for an exciting weekend of rehearsing and practicing, ultimately culminating in a performance at Carver Arena in Peoria to a crowd of over 5,000 spectators.
The annual All-State performance is a major arrangement that showcases all elements of music, including band, orchestra, and choral groups. Each group is packed with vast amounts of experience and talent in music-related areas, particularly because all of the chosen members are among the most dedicated individuals in the entire state. Upon arrival in Peoria, members embark on a long weekend of rehearsal for their selected music pieces.
After excitedly discussing the events, Cain remarked that “this event was truly beautiful. All groups had amazing directors, honestly, some of the best in the country.” Through the experience of singing as a collective, Cain finds it truly impactful. “I love singing with groups, and it’s probably the best group I’ve been in. It is a feeling when you have those moments, you feel connected with those around you. I didn’t want it to end,” Cain emphasized.
Though the event only lasted several days, the process for Cain has been years in the making. Cain began singing as a chorus member in sixth grade and has gradually taken on various singing roles over time. Now in high school, Cain is a member of the SIU Choral Union, an organization that allows high schoolers to perform alongside college students. Additionally, Cain has been in the cast of two HHS musical productions, Little Shop of Horrors as the Fairy Godmother and Cinderella as a member of the musical ensemble. Reflecting on those experiences, Cain added, “Although the role of the Fairy Godmother was extremely demanding, it was my favorite role played because I felt like I was more involved in almost every scene.”
Looking for new opportunities, Cain sought to become a member of the highly prestigious All-State choir. The first step is to audition for one of the Illinois district choirs by sending in an audition tape to a panel of judges. Cain has performed for two consecutive years in the district choir, but then began to consider taking a bold step forward. “The best singers from each district go to the state event. I had to sing a bunch of scales, triads, and other musical pieces. It was a lot of work, but then I received the news that I was selected for the honors all-state choir, which is more prestigious than any other group,” Cain described.
Ultimately, singing means more than just accolades for Cain, as it invokes a deeper meaning than what others may not fully see. Cain elaborated, “Singing is a way that humans have used to connect. It’s the music that connects us within cultures and in life. Not just from a choral standpoint, but to be in a place where hundreds of people are singing in harmony. It’s an experience like no other.”
Looking to the future, Cain has ambitious goals related to music and singing, such as auditioning for a lead role in the musical and trying even more solo contests. “I do plan to start vocal lessons. It’ll help me further my ability and aim even higher for various goals,” added Cain. Cain has found a passion for singing and theater, and all of the hard work and dedication have finally come to fruition.
From the Tiger Tattler Staff, congratulations, Cain, on this accomplishment. Wishing you a blessed future path ahead.
