Arts and Media Student Resources
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The College of Arts and Media provides you with a number of student resources to stay engaged with peers and potentially improve your talents outside of class. From performance choirs to bands (percussion ensemble, jazz band, pep band, symphonic band, wind ensemble and more) to social clubs, we host several ways to keep you connected. Our collaborative, cross-disciplinary approach, small class sizes and knowledgeable faculty make Grand Canyon University a place for you to learn, rehearse and perform. Explore the many fine arts resources available to you.
Performing helps you develop and master your talent. At GCU, we aim to promote the artistry and creative integrity of music, dance and more. The College of Arts and Media offers a diverse selection of performance groups to the university community and the Phoenix community at large. Get involved, join our large network of creative minds and perform.
If you are interested in performing in one of our performance ensembles, an audition may be required. You must be accepted as a GCU student in order to audition for any of our ensembles. For more information regarding auditions, call 855-GCU-LOPE or visit our auditions page.
For the music-minded, GCU encourages you to participate in one of its boisterous bands. Genres range from chamber music to ragtime classics to today's pop tunes; whatever your style, there is a band for you!
Different bands at GCU include:
GCU Thundering Heard Pep Band
Thundering Heard is an integral part of Lopes basketball. The Thundering Heard Pep Band is open to all majors, by audition.
GCU Symphonic Band
During the basketball off-season, the Thundering Heard Pep Band becomes the GCU Symphonic Band and performs once a year.
GCU Thunder Big Band
A high-caliber performing ensemble open to the most advanced jazz musicians by audition. This band studies and performs music from multiple music eras.
GCU Percussion Ensemble
A chamber music group open to percussionists of all majors by audition. This ensemble studies and performs contemporary music.
GCU Wind Ensemble
The premiere wind group at GCU is open to the most advanced musicians by audition. Musical excellence is upheld as both new and traditional masterpieces are performed.
Some dance opportunities at GCU include:
Ethington Dance Ensemble
GCU’s Ethington Dance Ensemble (EDE) promotes tradition, innovation and imagination in the art of dance. Members of EDE include dance and dance education students who perform in our annual dance concert series as well as dance performances throughout the region. EDE offers our students a pre-professional experience as they engage in various styles and choreography with faculty and guest artists.
Elementary Dance Tour
The GCU Elementary Dance Tour is a multi-media production that visits local elementary and middle schools each spring semester. This student touring company brings quality arts experiences to K-8 students in the Valley at no cost. Through this tour, we strive to spark young audiences’ impulse for self-expression by offering tools that help them explore dance and the performing arts.
GCU Parables Theatre Troupe
Parables is a traveling theatre group that brings high-energy, engaging and faith-based content into schools, churches and special events. The Parables team is prayerfully chosen each year from those students who express an interest in sharing the gospel through theatre.
The College of Arts and Media clubs are the potential entryway to new skills and lifelong bonds with fellow performers, designers and producers outside the classroom. Develop your purpose and further your passions while making new connections in student-run clubs and associations.
Music and arts are common forces that connect communities worldwide. The College of Arts and Media commits to serving others to make a global impact that lasts a lifetime.
Take advantage of the many programs offered by GCU, including internships. Work to gain practical experience and college credits as an intern.