In 2001, the Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts was founded to offer life-enhancing, even life-changing experiences to its young performers in the performing arts. Over the past two decades, the programs of The Academy Youth Guard, The Summer Brass & Percussion Ensemble, The Academy Winter Guard, The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, and Phenom Drum and Bugle Corps, have shaped the history of this organization through the thousands of individuals they have served. 

2021 marks the 20th season of activity for the programs of AAPA.  To commemorate the occasion, alumni, staff, and volunteers will be joining together to witness a special combined tribute presented by Alumni of AAPA programs and The members of the 2021 Academy Drum and Bugle Corps. Participants from all of the AAPA programs are called to join us for this historic performance.  We invite ALL alumni, including those that have “aged out” as well as those that are under 22 to join us either in performance or in the stands on Saturday, August 7th.  We look forward to reconnecting with the members of past programs including the Summer Brass & Percussion Ensemble, The Academy Youth Guard, The Academy Winter Guard, The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, and Phenom Drum and Bugle Corps! 

who can join?

View the Presentation

The Gear

When you register to participate either as a performer or observer, you will be set to receive a set of commemorative merchandise, including a custom AAPA (The Academy) Jersey with your name on the back* (design yet to be finalized), mask, and 20th anniversary patch. 

*customization only if registered prior to June 18. 

The Timeline

Registration
april 12 – June 18

Register Online
Receive Materials
Pick up Equipment
Practice

Rehearsal
july 3 – july 31

July 3
July 10
July 17
July 24
July 31

Showtime
August 7

Dress Rehearsal
August 6th – 6pm

Reunion Performance
August 7th – 7pm

the cost

For alumni performing with the Reunion Ensemble, the $175 fee helps to cover costs for merchandise, instrument maintenance, facilities, equipment, transportation, staffing, administrative, Covid Safety Measures, and other misc. 

For Non-performing participants, a $100 fee helps to cover your merchandise, admission into the performance venue, and to help to defray the costs for the performing ensemble and reunion project.

Register Now

Safety Protocols

Please understand that while safety measures and requirements will be evolving as the guidelines and recommendations are updated, at this time the requirements for participation include:

Covid Mitigation – Alumni Performers

  • Vaccination – This requirement will not change.  All participants performing in the Alumni Ensemble are required to be fully vaccinated before attending their first live rehearsal or performance with the group. Proof of vaccination (photo of your COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card) will need to be provided.
  • Mask Wearing – We anticipate mask wearing to be active throughout the experience, in adherence to the facility protocols, and as a preventative measure for each other.
  • Social Distancing – Throughout, we will employ measures to maintain social distancing to one another by maximizing the space we have in all areas.
  • Temperature checks/Health Screening – We will have a google form for which we will require each individual to submit prior to attendance at each of the events. 
  • Rapid Antigen Test – There will likely be a need for performers in the Alumni Ensemble to participate in a rapid test once or twice before interacting with the current Academy DBC members on August 6th/7th.  This will be a self-administered, saliva-based test, with a 15-minute response time, cost covered by AAPA. 

Covid Mitigation – Non-Performers

Know that it is possible that attendance numbers at the performance venue may be limited, and COVID-19 mitigation requirements will be in play for audience members as well as performers.  There will most assuredly be a requirement to wear your mask, and follow whatever guidelines are needing to be set to ensure the safety of all.  Thanks in advance for your cooperation and support.