Seasoned veterans return to The Academy this summer to spearhead the effort towards ensemble cohesion. Returning to the ensemble leadership team in the role of Ensemble Coordinator is Marc Whitlock. Jim Ragsdale returns to The Academy for his second year in his new role as Ensemble Specialist. Read all about them at the link below.
Author Archives: AAPA Admin
27
Feb
Feb
The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps welcomes the staff of the 2025 Brass Education Team. Returning to the team is Caption Head, Michael Weber, and Assistant Caption Heads Christian Arteaga and Tori Kawasaki. They have assembled an outstanding and dedicated group of brass educators. Read all about the entire Brass team at the link below.
05
Dec
Dec
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps Welcomes Josh Thye as Executive Director Tempe, AZ – December 2, 2024 – The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, a nationallyrecognized organization dedicated to excellence in music and the performing arts, proudlyannounces the appointment of Mr. Josh Thye as Executive Director, effective June 1, 2025. Mr. […]
Academy Staff
The Academy Announces Planned Departure of Founder and Executive Director Mark Richardson
19
Jul
Jul
[Tempe, Arizona, July 2024] – The Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts (AAPA) is announcing the planned departure of our Founder and Executive Director, Mark Richardson, who will be stepping down in May 2025 after serving in his role since 2000. Mark has been the driving force behind AAPA since its inception, shaping it into […]
The Academy is extremely excited to welcome Kevin Welborn, Marc Whitlock, and Derek Fields to the production team for The Academy. These incredible educators are bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the members and staff of The Academy and focused on maximizing the effectiveness and excellence of the entire ensemble through a cohesive, […]
16
Jan
Jan
SHOW REVEAL ALERT?!?!?!?!? No, not quite that cool, but still exciting news regarding the annual fundraising campaign with the WM Phoenix Open. Our board will TRIPLE your donation! Your $100 donation will actually become a $330 gift to The Academy. Follow the link below for all of the details!
11
Jan
Jan
As the season is fast approaching, The Academy is pleased to share the Lead Staff for the Percussion Team. See all of their bios and check back as the entire team is finalized soon.
09
Jan
Jan
The Academy is selling some fantastic used audio gear, and you won’t want to miss out on these incredible deals! Whether you’re a musician, audio enthusiast, or just looking to upgrade your equipment, we’ve got something for everyone. For any questions or inquiries about the gear, contact Mark Richardson at mark@arizonaacademy.org. Don’t miss this chance […]
21
Nov
Nov
We are thrilled to announce the newest additions to The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps leadership team. Join us in welcoming Andrew Gregory and Robert Peterson as our Co-Caption Heads for the upcoming season. Their wealth of experience, dedication to excellence, and passion for the marching arts make them the perfect duo to lead our […]