Linn-Mar Hosts Annual “Supernova” Show Choir Competition
Linn-Mar High School will host the annual Supernova Show Choir Competition on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, welcoming high school show choirs from across Iowa to perform, compete, and showcase their talents. The event serves as a major fundraiser for the Linn-Mar music program, drawing thousands of visitors and involving hundreds of volunteers and students.
“Supernova is one of the largest fundraisers for our district, if not the largest,” said Trent Buglewicz, one of the high school choir directors. “This event brings together over 600 volunteers, including about 300 students, to run everything from concessions to stage management. It’s a massive collaboration between our school’s music department, teachers, staff, and the larger community.”
Supernova has become a hallmark event in the Linn-Mar community, not only for its impact on the school’s music programs but also for the spirit of teamwork it fosters. Volunteers will begin setting up as early as Friday evening, working through the night to ensure everything is ready for the competition the following day. The event is a true testament to the support the school receives from its community, with many parents returning year after year to contribute their time.
Jack Jorgenson, high school choir director at Linn-Mar, highlighted how the event empowers students both on and off the stage. “Students not only get to perform, but they also take on leadership roles throughout the day. They serve as room hosts, help with backstage operations, and assist with other logistics. It’s a great opportunity for them to grow as leaders while supporting the show choir community.”
The competition will feature performances from a range of groups, from junior varsity show choirs to seasoned varsity ensembles. The day kicks off at 9 a.m. with the first groups taking the stage, and performances will continue throughout the day, culminating in a finals round featuring the top six groups.
“The event is the first major competition for many schools, so it’s exciting for everyone involved,” said Sarah Anderson, a high school choir director. “It’s a chance for our students to see how their show compares with others, and for students from different schools to meet and build connections. Supernova creates a positive, sportsmanlike environment where everyone can enjoy the performances and the camaraderie.”
Supernova is not just about competition—it’s about fostering a sense of community, both within Linn-Mar and across the state. It’s a space where students, directors, and volunteers can reconnect, share experiences, and learn from each other.
“It’s such a unique experience,” Anderson added. “Whether you’re a student, a director, or a spectator, there’s something special about being a part of an event that brings so many people together in celebration of music and teamwork.”
Tickets, Schedule, and More Information
You can pre-purchase tickets by clicking the link here and searching for ‘Supernova’ or you can buy tickets on the day of the event at the door. For the schedule of the event, click the link here. For more information on attendance, results, and more, visit www.linnmarsupernova.org to learn more.