Promoting the Arts

Art involves more than staring at a picture on a museum wall. Art encompasses the whole person and engages body, mind, and spirit. Renowned essayist, poet, and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Art should exhilarate, and throw down the walls of circumstances on every side.”

Artistic Calendar of Events

There is no need to drive to Los Angeles when Azusa Pacific students and Azusa residents have a cultural resource right in their backyard. With nine musicals and plays, plus independent student productions every year, APU’s performing arts are highly acclaimed. The Departments of Art and Design hold many faculty and student exhibits throughout the year in several locations on campus. Student, faculty, and guest music recitals are likewise widely attended, along with APU’s three talented and popular choir groups (University Choir, Bel Canto Women’s Choir, and Men’s Chorale), and numerous instrumental groups. These culturally enriching events are always open to both students and the Azusa community. For schedules, cost, or more information, call (626) 815-6000 and enter the desired extension: School of the Arts (3848), Theater Office (5035), Event Center Ticket Office (5494), Concert Hotline (2002), Concert Booking (3058), or check out the complete listing of events.

Azusa Conservatory of Music

This program is sponsored in partnership with APU’s School of the Arts and Academic Service-Learning, and in collaboration with Citrus College. APU students enrolled in a variety of music education courses participate in service learning as teachers for the conservatory.

The conservatory is designed to provide instrumental and choral instruction to Azusa families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to receive formal music training. The program concludes each semester with a major recital where the students showcase their musical talent for family and friends. To support families that are unable to purchase or rent an instrument, an ongoing instrument drive was established and donations are accepted for both new and used instruments.

Azusa Renaissance

This program elevates the arts in Azusa by encouraging local youth to participate and grow in their understanding of art, drama, etc., via free public performances and workshops run by APU students. For more information, contact Monica Ganas at (626) 815-6000, Ext. 3497.

Civic Theater

This service learning course provides theatrical training for the local community through a variety of community based organizations. A final theatrical performance, created by the students in the class and fellow community members, takes place at a local off-campus setting.

Music

Community members, schools, and libraries are invited to attend numerous concerts throughout the year free of charge. These concerts feature student recitals to world-class musicians. Concerts include performances by APU’s Concert Band, the Jazz Ensemble, Gospel Choir, and others.

Theater Arts

All shows are open to the community. Two morning matinees are held especially for Azusa schools. Once a year, APU’s Theater Arts program sends a mailing to Azusa residents about upcoming shows. See the community calendar for performance dates.