Springing into a new season of music

Abundance of performances offers chance for community building and experimentation

girl playing cello in ucsc orchestra

Spring is one of the most exciting times for music at University of California, Santa Cruz. While there are performances every quarter, spring represents the culmination of a year of labor and practice. It often offers more concert opportunities than other quarters and this year is no exception.

Faculty and student performers will be joined by outside professional artists for three months of musical experiences. There is something for everyone both on-campus and in the surrounding community. Many of the concerts are free and friendly for the whole family.

This quarter will see the reemergence of April in Santa Cruz, the annual festival featuring performances sponsored by the UC Santa Cruz Music Department which will give audiences opportunities to experience a wide range of cultures through music. The concerts this year emphasize trans-cultural experiences through cross-disciplinary practices.

The Music Department will spotlight both national and international performers whose excellence in composing and performance demonstrate the university’s dedication to providing the best possible experience for students and the community. Professional performers include master classical guitarist Connie Sheu as well as Charlton Lee and Kathryn Bates from the San Francisco-based Del Sol Quartet. There will be a variety of styles of music including jazz, winds, experimental music and more.

The Music department, led by professor and chair Amy Beal, provides cultural and community events that are important for students and community members alike. The upcoming concerts will embody a sense of community both on campus and in the surrounding areas. All events are open to the public, with many being free so there is no barrier to entry.

An Evening of Classical Guitar with Connie Sheu

Friday April 18, 2025

7:30 Pm

Music Center Recital Hall

April in Santa Cruz

Concert 1

April 18, 2025

7:30 PM

Music Center Rooms 191 & 131

April in Santa Cruz

Tenanan

Saturday April 19, 2025

6:00 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

April in Santa Cruz

Concert 3

Friday April 25, 2025

7:30 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

UCSC Orchestra

Friday May 9, 2025

7:30 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

UCSC Wind Ensemble

Saturday May 10, 2025

7:30 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

UCSC Concert Choir

Friday May 16, 2025

7:30 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

La Alegria Del Mariachi with guest artist Oscar Ortega Ornelas

Sunday May 18, 2025

3:00 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

Le Nozze di Figaro

May 29, 30 & 31, 2025 – 7:30 PM

June 1, 2025 – 3:00 PM

Music Center Recital Hall

UCSC Jazz Ensemble

Saturday June 7, 2025

7:30 PM

Music Center Recital Hall