Clinician Steve Katz working
with orchestra.
Art Hildebrand Music Invitational
formerly known as Little People’s Festival
Art Hildebrand was a well-respected musician and music educator in the Northern Suburbs of Chicago for many years. His profound impact on students continues to this day. In addition to his role as a founding member of the Northern Illinois Music Conference (NIMCon) he established the event now named in his honor.
The Art Hildebrand Music Invitational began in 2000 in North Chicago as the Little People’s Band Festival. The intent of this festival has been to allow bands, and now orchestras, a performance and clinic without the adjudication of contest. It is designed for younger ensembles, or ensembles that do not meet daily or meet in parts coming together for performances.
AHMI is open to all who want to participate. Schools do not need to be members of NIMCon to participate.
To participate in the Art Hildebrand Music Invitational, follow these steps:
1. Print out and complete this Participation Invoice to register for AHMI. Mail it with your check (or copy of your check request) to the NIMCon Treasurer at the name and address on the invoice.
2. If your check will not arrive by December 1st, please EMAIL a copy of the participation invoice and check request to [email protected] by December 1st.
3. We will not accept late entries.
Upcoming
2026 AHMI – March 11/12, 2026 @ Edgewood & Northwood Jr. High Schools
Looking ahead: AHMI 2027
2027 AHMI – March 10/11
formerly known as Little People’s Festival
Art Hildebrand was a well-respected musician and music educator in the Northern Suburbs of Chicago for many years. His profound impact on students continues to this day. In addition to his role as a founding member of the Northern Illinois Music Conference (NIMCon) he established the event now named in his honor.
The Art Hildebrand Music Invitational began in 2000 in North Chicago as the Little People’s Band Festival. The intent of this festival has been to allow bands, and now orchestras, a performance and clinic without the adjudication of contest. It is designed for younger ensembles, or ensembles that do not meet daily or meet in parts coming together for performances.
AHMI is open to all who want to participate. Schools do not need to be members of NIMCon to participate.
To participate in the Art Hildebrand Music Invitational, follow these steps:
1. Print out and complete this Participation Invoice to register for AHMI. Mail it with your check (or copy of your check request) to the NIMCon Treasurer at the name and address on the invoice.
2. If your check will not arrive by December 1st, please EMAIL a copy of the participation invoice and check request to [email protected] by December 1st.
3. We will not accept late entries.
Upcoming
2026 AHMI – March 11/12, 2026 @ Edgewood & Northwood Jr. High Schools
Looking ahead: AHMI 2027
2027 AHMI – March 10/11