Spotlight on Huskie Music Fest: A Celebration of Student Talent and Community Support

Spotlight on Huskie Music Fest: A Celebration of Student Talent and Community Support

On any given night at Oak Park and River Forest High School, music is in the air. But each fall, one event brings together the full spectrum of student musicians in a dynamic, high-energy celebration that showcases not just talent, but also the powerful impact of community support and arts education.

Huskie Music Fest is more than a concert. It’s a festival-style evening held primarily in the OPRF Field House, where audiences experience a dynamic lineup of performances by the school’s bands, orchestras, choirs, and show choir, each taking the stage in a carefully timed sequence. It’s also the annual fundraiser for APPLAUSE!, the school’s parent-led performing arts booster group.

“It’s an introduction to everything we do in music,” said Anthony Svejda, music department chair. “We want students and families to experience the full range of what’s possible here, and that includes seeing what they can grow into.”

The event attracts hundreds of attendees and features student ensembles ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Groups perform in timed blocks throughout the evening, giving audiences the flexibility to “pop in and pop out” for performances that are of interest. 

In addition to the Field House performances, OPRF’s state-recognized, award-winning jazz program takes over the South Cafeteria for the evening, giving audiences yet another way to experience the energy and talent of Huskie Music Fest.

“The structure of the event creates an opportunity for band students to hear choir, or orchestra students to experience jazz,” Svejda said. “That cross-pollination is powerful, for both students and families.”

Powered by APPLAUSE! and the Community

The event also serves a deeper purpose: raising critical funds to support the district’s performing arts programs. APPLAUSE! helps underwrite guest artists, instruments, student lessons, performance attire, and scholarships for trips and competitions, ensuring that every student can participate fully, regardless of financial circumstances.

“The more we raise, the more we can give back,” said Caren Teclaw, co-president of APPLAUSE!. “Our goal is to support all things performing arts, from choir robes to choreographers to travel support. These experiences change students' lives.”

This year alone, APPLAUSE! is helping send students to Nashville and Italy, supporting not only once-in-a-lifetime performance opportunities but also the deep learning and collaboration that happen along the way.

A Gateway for the Next Generation

For many students, Huskie Music Fest is a spark.

“I want middle school students to come and say, ‘I want to be part of that,’” Svejda said. “Music gives you things you didn’t even know were possible. I just want them to stay with it, to see what’s waiting for them here.”

Tracy Van Duinen, Fine and Performing Arts Division Head, teacher, and parent of a senior in the performing arts program, echoed that sentiment.

“This program thrives because of the dedication of teachers, parents, and the community,” Van Duinen said. “As a parent, I’ve seen firsthand how this experience shapes students, not just as performers, but as people.”

How to Attend or Support

This year’s Huskie Music Fest is set for October 14 at 5:30 p.m. at Oak Park and River Forest High School. Tickets are $10 in advance for adults ($12 at the door) and $8 for students and seniors. All proceeds benefit OPRF’s performing arts programs through APPLAUSE!. 

Community members are encouraged to attend, even if they don’t have a student in the program. Come for a single set or stay for the night, there’s no wrong way to experience it.

For those unable to attend but still eager to support, donations and sponsorships are welcome throughout the year. Visit the APPLAUSE! website to give.