Friday, October 23rd 2026

What is Playathon?

Playathon is a Rio Music tradition dating to 1981. It is our main fundraiser—an all-day community concert event featuring all of our performance groups! We perform for the public and reach out to our feeder elementary and middle school music programs to collaborate on the performances. We also offer an after-school carnival which is open to the public. There’s usually a food truck too! The money we raise buys music, instruments, supplies, provides travel opportunities, and generally allows Rio Music to continue as a first-rate high school music program. Basically, it’s a blast for all!

All Rio Band and Orchestra students participate in Playathon, as it is a mandatory event. It is an important bonding experience for the students, and a major concert performance opportunity. Feeder elementary and middle school band students are invited to play along with the Rio bands in the afternoon. Parents are encouraged to attend the evening concert, featuring all of Rio’s concert and jazz bands. Food is provided for Rio Music students, and parent chaperones supervise the students throughout the day. Specific themes and activities are developed year-to-year so that every year’s event is unique.

The theme for 2026 is…CARTOONS!