HNHS Students Plan to Perform at Festival Disney and Heart of America Events During Spring Break
During the regularly scheduled board meeting on Monday, October 14, 2024, Huntington North High School’s (HNHS) Marching Band and Show Choir were granted initial approval to attend prestigious national competitions in Orlando, Florida, in 2026. The trip, slated for Spring Break, offers students the opportunity to perform at two highly regarded events: Festival Disney for the Marching Band and Heart of America for the Show Choir.
Michael Petek, Director of Bands, and Danielle Webb, one of the school’s choir directors, presented the proposal, expressing enthusiasm about the experience that awaits students. "This is an exciting time for us as we begin to plan for next year," Petek shared. "We are thrilled to provide our students with this national platform, which allows them to showcase their talents and gain valuable feedback."
Details of the Trip
The proposed trip will span several days, with students departing the Thursday before Spring Break. The Marching Band will perform at Disney's Magic Kingdom, while the Show Choir will compete at the Heart of America event near Disney Springs. Both groups will stay in separate hotels due to differing performance schedules and venue accommodations.
Petek noted that the trip, which occurs every two years for the Marching Band and reestablishes a similar schedule for the Show Choir, will also include dedicated tour directors, overnight security, and comprehensive meal plans to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for students. Students will have the opportunity to explore Disney World, though the Show Choir’s competition schedule may limit their park time.
Financial Considerations
The cost of the trip will be shared between the students and the school’s music boosters, with fundraising efforts planned to help offset expenses. Petek emphasized the importance of providing financial assistance to ensure all students can participate. “The boosters will work towards providing assistance for those in need, and we’ll be reaching out to alumni and donors to support our students,” he explained.
Although the final cost is yet to be determined, Petek provided a range of estimated expenses, noting that Disney will not finalize its 2026 pricing until January. The price will cover transportation, accommodation, performance fees, and meals while in Orlando.
This trip is more than just a performance opportunity. Petek highlighted its value as a learning experience, with professional feedback helping students prepare for their end-of-year Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) competitions.
Next Steps
The board will vote on final approval for the trip in an upcoming meeting. With support from the board and the community, the Huntington North Marching Band and Show Choir are excited to continue this bi-annual tradition of excellence and national recognition.