Naperville North Jazz Bands

The 40's Dance

We know you love the sounds of the big band era as interpreted by our awardwinning NNHS jazz bands and vocalists. Each spring, we celebrate their accomplishments and dance the night away at the annual 40’s Dance - scheduled for May 8.

For more details, please contact 40's Dance Co-Chair, Anne Stickley Michel at Dance@nnhsmusic.org

The annual 40’s Dance is the showcase event for the jazz bands and vocalists at Naperville North. A truly unique and gala evening, the 40s Dance brings together the performers, their families and friends in a fun celebration of big band music, swing dancing and the music department at NNHS. Presented by Friends of Music, it is the only fundraising event sponsored by the parent booster organization.

Originally held as a way to showcase the beginnings of the North jazz program in a “supper club” atmosphere, in 18 years the 40s Dance has outgrown its modest start to become a premier event held at the largest ballroom in the area at the Wyndham Hotel in Lisle. More than 500 enjoy a rotating schedule of music provided by the different jazz bands, combos, and vocalist groups. The 40s Dance kicks off with free swing dance lessons before the bands take the stage, complimentary refreshments and a cash bar.

A highlight of the dance is the extensive silent auction where dance goers can bid on items donated by local merchants and parents. Past auctions have featured everything from prime parking spots at NNHS graduation ceremonies to the use of a Mini-Cooper for the weekend. Funds raised by the dance and silent auction go directly to the jazz programs at North and are used to purchase equipment and instruments, hire clinicians to work with the jazz students, and augment travel and competition budgets.

This gala event is staged by parent volunteers and most of the planning is done up to a year beforehand. Those interested in helping with the 40s Dance are encouraged to contact Friends of Music at their earliest convenience.

We Need Your Support

We are looking for people to donate to the silent auction. Past donations have included musical instruments and lessons, concert and show tickets, plays and sporting events, jewelry, and special items that showcase the talents and generosity of our community. Last year families of music students put together many wonderful themed, one-of-a-kind baskets that generated a lot of interest, and thus monetary support for FOM. All donations are tax-deductible.

We could also use your help soliciting donations from local vendors. We understand that a lot of folks may not be comfortable asking for donations, so we’ll provide you with all the materials you need and brief training to carry out this task well. This is a great way to get experience doing outreach fundraising. Contact one of the co-chairs if you’d like to join the ranks of fundraisers.

Ticket Order Form

40's Dance Flyer