On a night filled with enormous pride, Paradise Valley Community College’s Center for the Performing Arts hosted the Maricopa County Community College District’s Artist of Promise Art, Dance, and Music Gala, showcasing the immense talent of our community. More than 60 pieces of original art adorned the gallery, while six dance performances and 16 musical acts commanded the stage. From classical and opera to jazz and country rock, the evening celebrated artistic expression across disciplines.
A highlight of the evening was the performance of PVCC theater major Monet Emrey’s award-winning original song Millennia. The song was written as a project in her songwriting class led by instructors Bradford Knights and Paula Tesorerio, both PVCC alumni. The enchanting vocalist captivated the audience but the beauty extended beyond her vocals. On stage to accompany Monet were:
- Troy Maskell, a professional percussionist, human resources professional, and 1996 PVCC alumnus.
- Kevin Lewis, a returning adult student, professional tattoo artist, and passionate student pursuing his associates in audio production.
- Joshua LaFluer, a first-year music major, honors student, and son of a PVCC music graduate.
“The ensemble’s performance demonstrated how music brings people from all different walks of life, ages, experiences, stages in their careers, and interests together. It highlighted how the shared experience of creating music breaks down barriers, promotes inclusivity, creates mutual respect, and builds communities,” explained Dr. Chris Scinto, division chair of Fine and Performing Arts and music faculty, PVCC. “A simple four-minute pop song reminded me that we have created a very special and completely unique program at PVCC that provides all students with life changing opportunities and champions music making as a community endeavor.”
For more information on PVCC’s arts programs, visit our website. For information about the Center for the Performing Arts, click here.