The 2025 United Music School and Rising Stars event
On Saturday, April 12, nearly 300 people from 23 Corps gathered at Mayfair Community Church in Chicago’s Northside for a day of worship and artistic celebration. The 2025 United Music School and Rising Stars event, hosted by The Salvation Army’s North and Central Illinois (NCI) Division, brought together 170 students and 60 leaders for a full day of music learning and connection.
From early in the morning, the atmosphere was full of energy and purpose.
“The atmosphere was filled with unity and excitement from the moment people arrived,” said Major Stephanie Senn, Divisional Secretary for Program. “It was truly inspiring to see kids from all corners of the division coming together with officers and leaders, all sharing in the joy of music and worship. There was a strong spirit of encouragement throughout the day, students cheering one another on, leaders affirming young talent, and everyone celebrating growth and creativity. It felt like a family reunion with a purpose.”
Not only does The Salvation Army provide food, shelter, and emergency assistance, it takes a holistic approach that includes the spiritual, emotional, and creative development of individuals. Programs like the United Music School help young people grow in faith, discover their God-given gifts, and find purpose through worship and the arts.
This year’s Rising Stars competition featured solo and ensemble categories across brass, piano, percussion, vocal, drama, and dance. First-place winners in each category will represent the division at the Territorial Rising Stars Festival during the Belonging Congress this June in Milwaukee.
Some standout winners included:
- Esther Polsley, Brass Solo 1
- Hector Gonzales, Guitar Solo
- Ellen Nottle, Vocal Solo 4
- Joel Del Real, Percussion Solo
- Joliet, Beginner Band
- OBT, Youth Band & Singing Company
- Norridge, Youth Chorus & Dance Level 2
“The vision for this year’s United Music School and Rising Stars event was aligned with the overarching mission of the NCI Music & Creative Arts Department (Psalm 33:3): to glorify God through worship, evangelism, education, and fellowship,” said Peter Kim, Divisional Music Director. “The goal was to inspire and equip young leaders, foster innovation in worship, and cultivate excellence in musical and artistic expressions—all while drawing people closer to Christ.
“Spiritually, students are immersed in worship and evangelism, using their music as a personal expression of faith and praise,” Kim added. “These experiences help young people see music as more than performance—it’s a form of ministry, a path for discipleship, and a tool for building community.”
The event concluded with a concert by the renowned Chicago Staff Band, which featured awards presentations woven throughout the performance to honor participants and winners in each category.
“Events like United Music School and Rising Stars reflect the heart of The Salvation Army’s mission—serving the whole person through programs that uplift the spirit, mind, and body,” Major Senn said. “By providing young people with an outlet to worship God through music and the arts, we are nurturing their faith, developing their gifts, and building community. These kinds of opportunities help shape future leaders while offering a meaningful way to express love for God and others.”
As the United Music School continues with monthly gatherings throughout the division, the focus remains the same: developing young musicians, strengthening corps music programs, and pointing every participant toward a deeper walk with Christ.