Raider Band Gives Voice to Child’s Story at Spring Concert 

The Raider band will fill Highland Park Middle School with both music and meaning at its annual spring concert at 6:30 p.m. on May 15. 

The performance will feature “Heart of Hope,” an original piece created through a special partnership with Sing Me a Story, a nonprofit that brings children’s stories to life through music. 

“I’m always on the lookout for ways that [the band] can involve our program in the community,” said middle school director of bands John Vanhook. “Anything we can do for outreach or betterment, I’m all about it.” 

Sing Me a Story invites children in need to write or illustrate their own stories, which are then given to professional musicians and composers, who create original songs in the child’s honor, in a powerful collaboration of creativity and compassion. 

Composer Ryan Fillinger was selected to bring the story of William Woleben to life. 

Will was born with a genetic condition that limits his mobility and requires the use of a wheelchair. Despite these challenges, Will never lets his radiant smile or love for athletics dim, and with the determination and support of his family, he has found his place in a variety of sports. Will faces every obstacle with courage and a heart full of hope, showing that joy can thrive in the most unexpected circumstances and that nothing is impossible with perseverance. 

“One of my artistic goals as a composer is to move and transform audiences with my music,” said Fillinger. “The mission of Sing Me a Story aligns with this goal of mine, so being given this opportunity helped me work toward that. Not to mention, it was an incredible honor to get to contribute to something as powerful and inspiring as helping tell Will’s story.” 

Vanhook and his students have been rehearsing with focus and heart, eager to share their musical talents and the powerful story behind the composition. The Raider Band musicians invite the community to join them on May 15 for an evening of music and a celebration of resilience. 

“Middle school kids are awesome, and a lot of time they’re underestimated and people not directly involved with them don’t know how amazing they can be,” Vanhook said. “Anybody that can come see [the performance] will be touched and moved by the investments that these kids have made.