Chamber Destinations
Embark on a musical journey with the Yavapai College Flute Choir and Clarinet Choir in an intimate on-stage setting as they explore a wide range of styles, moods, and musical landscapes. From familiar favorites to unexpected discoveries, each work offers a new destination for the imagination. Join us for an evening of chamber music that celebrates curiosity, artistry, and the joy of musical exploration.
Black Ball: The Negro Leagues and The Blues
The Yavapai College Jazz Big Bands are proud to welcome acclaimed bassist, composer, and educator Marcus Shelby for a special evening featuring the Arizona premiere of his landmark jazz suite, Black Ball: The Negro Leagues and the Blues. Just in time for the MLB World Series!
Blending the rich traditions of big band jazz and the blues with the powerful story of the Negro Leagues, Black Ball celebrates the athletes, communities, and cultural legacy that shaped an important chapter in American history. Through evocative melodies, swinging rhythms, and compelling musical storytelling, Shelby's work honors the resilience, artistry, and spirit of those whose contributions extended far beyond the baseball diamond. This extraordinary collaboration offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience the work alongside its composer and creator.
America The Beautiful: A 250th Celebration
The Yavapai College Choral and Instrumental ensembles present a vibrant celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. This special concert showcases a dynamic range of music that reflects the spirit, history, and diversity of the nation—from moments of reflection and remembrance to bold expressions of unity and pride. Through powerful choral and instrumental works, this program invites audiences to celebrate the American story and the voices that continue to shape it.
Messiah
The Yavapai College Choral Union presents a timeless holiday tradition with Messiah by George Frideric Handel. This beloved masterwork brings together choir, soloists, and orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music that has inspired audiences for centuries. From the joyful brilliance of the “Hallelujah” chorus to the work’s moments of profound reflection, Messiah captures the spirit of the season with beauty, grandeur, and hope. Join us for this powerful celebration of one of the greatest choral works ever written.
Yule Be Swingin'
Celebrate the season in swinging style! The Yavapai College Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands present Yule Be Swingin', a festive evening of big band favorites and holiday classics. Featuring everything from smooth ballads to energetic swing tunes, this concert captures the magic of the holidays with the joyful sounds of jazz. Gather your family and friends and join us for an unforgettable night of music, merriment, and seasonal cheer.
Holiday Fanfares
The Yavapai College Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band present Holiday Fanfares, a festive celebration of the season through music. This spirited concert showcases a diverse selection of holiday favorites, traditional carols, and seasonal classics. From joyful fanfares and energetic dances to moments of warmth and reflection, Holiday Fanfares offers an evening of music that captures the wonder, excitement, and enduring traditions of the holiday season.
All Nature Sings
Experience the beauty of the natural world through sound in “All Nature Sings,” a concert inspired by the music that surrounds us every day. Performed by the Yavapai College Community Chorale, Cantabile, Vox Profunda, and Vox Angelica, this program explores the idea that nature itself is filled with rhythm, color, and song. From serene landscapes to vibrant expressions of life and movement, audiences are invited to listen more deeply—to the world around them, to one another, and to the harmony that connects us all.
Echos of Tradition
The Yavapai College Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band present Echoes of Tradition, an evening of music celebrating the melodies, stories, and artistic practices that connect generations. Featuring works inspired by folk songs, cultural heritage, and the enduring traditions of the concert stage, including John Barnes Chance’s celebrated Variations on a Korean Folk Song. From beloved classics to creative interpretations of traditional themes, Echoes of Tradition invites audiences to experience the rich musical legacy that continues to inspire performers and listeners alike.
Spring Serenade
Celebrate the arrival of spring with an evening of beautiful music performed by the Yavapai College Flute Choir and Clarinet Choir. Join the performers on stage for an intimate setting experience featuring an engaging variety of chamber works, this concert captures the spirit of the season through moments of energy, warmth, and reflection. Join us for a delightful serenade that welcomes longer days, fresh beginnings, and the joy of making music together.
Big Band Bash
The Yavapai College Music Department presents Big Band Bash, a high-energy celebration of jazz featuring the Yavapai College Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands alongside special guests from Bradshaw Mountain High School and Prescott High School. Bringing together student musicians from across our community, this event highlights the power of collaboration, the joy of live performance, and the enduring excitement of the big band tradition. Join us for an evening of great music, outstanding young talent, and plenty of swing!
Bon Voyage!
Celebrate the YC Master Chorale as they prepare for their international debut at the Dublin Choir Festival with a special send-off concert, “Bon Voyage!” This inspiring program features the ensemble’s tour repertoire, including Mass of the Children by John Rutter, alongside a selection of beloved American folk hymns and timeless melodies. Blending warmth, tradition, and artistry, this concert offers audiences a meaningful preview of the music the choir will share abroad—while celebrating the spirit of journey, connection, and musical storytelling.
Music In the Garden
The Yavapai College Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band present Music in the Garden, a unique musical experience that transforms the Yavapai College Sculpture Garden into a living concert venue. Audience members are invited to stroll through the garden and discover a variety of student-led chamber ensembles performing among the sculptures and landscape, culminating with a featured performance on the Performing Arts Center stage.
¡Caliente!
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo and the close of another outstanding jazz season with ¡Caliente! Featuring the Yavapai College Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands, this spirited concert showcases the vibrant sounds of Latin-inspired jazz alongside exciting big band favorites. Filled with infectious rhythms, electrifying solos, and the unmistakable energy of live jazz, ¡Caliente! is the perfect way to end the year on a high note.
Songs From Every Corner
Experience the richness of global music in “Songs from Every Corner,” a vibrant celebration of choral traditions from around the world. Featuring the full Yavapai College Choral Union, this concert brings together all five choirs in a dynamic program of diverse languages, cultures, and musical styles. From energetic folk songs to expressive and reflective works, audiences will be taken on a journey across continents—highlighting the beauty, color, and shared humanity found in music from every corner of the globe.
From Grief to Hope
The full Yavapai College Choral Union presents an expansive and deeply moving concert centered on comfort, hope, and renewal. Spanning centuries of choral tradition—from early sacred works to contemporary anthems of resilience—the program traces a powerful emotional arc from lament and reflection toward reassurance and light. Through music that speaks to loss, faith, and perseverance, this concert affirms the enduring
SOLD OUT! The Odd Couple
SOLD OUT!
Neat freak meets chaos agent in America’s favorite playwright Neil Simon’s fast-paced comedy The Odd Couple. Performed in YC’s newly refurbished Blackbox Theater, this hilarious clash of personalities brings all the dysfunction and charm of mismatched roommates to the stage in an intimate, laugh-out-loud setting.
High Desert Bop
Wrap up the season with a high-energy showcase of jazz innovation and style. Featuring the Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands, High Desert Bebop brings rich textures, tight rhythms, and tunes like Chuck Mangione’s Feels So Good to the Yavapai stage.
To the Movies!
Lights, camera, concert! Experience the thrill of the silver screen with iconic film music performed by the Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band. From John Williams in Concert to Pirates of the Caribbean, this concert is pure movie magic.
The Sound of Music
The hills are alive in Prescott! Presented on the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center Mainstage, The Sound of Music follows a spirited young woman who brings new life to a family in need — all against the backdrop of a world on the brink of change. A heartwarming story of love, resilience, and finding one’s place in the world.
We Belong
Presented by the Yavapai College Community Chorale, Vox Profunda, Vox Angelica, and Cantabile, We Belong is an evening that celebrates connection, hope, and shared humanity. Through a blend of reflective and uplifting works—including Craig Hella Johnson’s The Innocence and beloved songs of unity and resilience—this concert highlights the power of voices joined together in support and song. From moments of quiet reassurance to bold declarations of togetherness, We Belong invites audiences into a warm, affirming choral experience.
The Great Outdoors
Join the Yavapai College Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band for a musical hike through forests, fields, and fresh air. With works like Sousa’s The National Game and the cinematic Riders on the Wind, this concert captures the wide-open beauty of nature in sound.
Sheldon Street Blues
The blues take center stage as the Yavapai College Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands dig into smoky swing, funky grooves, and Latin-infused blues. From Ellington’s C Jam Blues ala Mambo to the cool swagger of Crunchy Frog, it’s a soulful ride down Sheldon Street.
Tickets available at www.ycpac.com
Candlelight Carols: A Hometown Holiday
Gather with us for a heartwarming holiday celebration! The Yavapai College Choirs present festive favorites and cozy classics in a joyful concert sure to lift your spirits. Featuring YC Voice Professors William Vallandigham and Danielle Corella and a full orchestra, this is your invitation to come home for the holidays.
Holiday Harmonies
Celebrate the season with joyful classics, festive favorites, and wintery delights. The Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band ring in the holidays with music that warms the heart — including the lively Patapan and the hauntingly beautiful The Eighth Candle.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Get ready to laugh, squirm, and spell your heart out! This hilarious Tony Award-winning musical comedy follows a group of overachieving misfits as they battle for glory in the ultimate spelling showdown. Performed in Yavapai College’s newly refurbished Blackbox Theater, this production invites you up close and into the chaos. Improvised moments, audience participation, and unforgettable characters make this a bee you won’t want to miss!
The Gift of Jazz
Unwrap the holidays with joyful rhythms, smooth ballads, and plenty of swing! Featuring both the Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands, this holiday-themed concert offers a festive mix of classics and surprises — including a jazzy spin on Baby It’s Cold Outside.
Sense and Sensibility
Step into the world of Jane Austen with Sense & Sensibility, a delightful stage adaptation performed by the talented students of the Yavapai College Performing Arts Department. This witty and heartfelt production brings the Dashwood sisters’ journey of love, loss, and societal expectations to life with charm and elegance. With six performances over two weekends, you’ll be swept away by the romance, humor, and timeless appeal of this beloved classic—brought to the stage by tomorrow’s stars.
Sacred Echos
Resonant, reverent, and powerful — Sacred Echoes features the Yavapai College Master Chorale and Women’s Chorale as they join forces with master organist Jeremy Neufeld in a stunning program of sacred works. Set at the beautiful Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and featuring a full performance of Faure’s Requiem, this performance invites reflection and awe in equal measure.
Sacred Echos
Resonant, reverent, and powerful — Sacred Echoes features the Yavapai College Master Chorale and Women’s Chorale as they join forces with master organist Jeremy Neufeld in a stunning program of sacred works. Set at the beautiful American Lutheran Church and featuring a full performance of Faure’s Requiem, this performance invites reflection and awe in equal measure.
Musica Eclectica
Help us welcome new Director of Choirs Dr. Michael Carter with an eclectic mix of vocal music from across centuries and styles. Featuring the Yavapai College Chamber Singers and Community Chorale, this concert offers a vibrant sampler of choral artistry — from Renaissance polyphony to contemporary gems. A perfect musical appetizer for the year ahead.
All that Jazz
Kick off the season with the Trailblazer and Roughrider Big Bands as they bring high-energy swing, sultry ballads, and bold brass to the stage. From Cole Porter’s Anything Goes to fresh funk and Latin grooves, this concert is a vibrant celebration of the jazz tradition.
Stories in Song
From sweeping epics to lyrical folk tunes, this concert brings powerful stories to life through music. The Yavapai College Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Symphonic Band explore narrative soundscapes in works like Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and Johan de Meij’s Lord of the Rings.
From Screen to Swing
From silver screen classics to swinging jazz favorites, this intimate concert blends cinematic beauty with toe-tapping grooves. The Yavapai College Clarinet Choir, Flute Choir, and Jazz Combo take audiences on a musical journey — from the lush landscapes of Jurassic Park to the timeless charm of Gershwin’s greatest hits. Join us for a night where jazz meets the movies in the most delightful way.