PHX Reporter

Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) and Glendale Community College (GCC) recently collaborated for a Sunday Night Rock Show at The 44 Sports Grill in Glendale, Arizona. This event, which took place last month, featured eight student bands from both colleges and was free to the public. It showcased a variety of musical genres including rock, pop, punk, and metal.

Dr. Chris Scinto, PVCC Performing Arts Director, expressed satisfaction with the event's success: “This shared concert was a tremendous success,” he said. “It was amazing to see students from both campuses supporting each other throughout the night, performing everything from pop and R&B to rock and metal.”

The collaboration allowed students to perform in a professional setting and interact with peers from across the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD). The show was particularly significant due to GCC’s Performing Arts Center being temporarily closed following fire damage.

GCC Music Director Dr. Ben Hedquist highlighted the value of such partnerships: “These collaborations give students the chance to meet other musicians, learn from each other, and become part of a larger musical community," he stated. "It’s not just about the music; it’s about building connections and strengthening our programs across MCCCD."

Students found the experience impactful. Jessi Lawrence from PVCC appreciated faculty support for her needs as a wheelchair user: “The faculty were always prepared—there was a ramp plan before I even asked—and I know I can turn to them for help without hesitation,” she said.

GCC student Jude Walkner noted the difference between performing off-campus compared to campus recital halls: “Performing at The 44 was so different from campus recital halls. I learned a lot about gigging and playing small venues,” he remarked.

For PVCC’s five rock bands, this mid-semester performance offered an opportunity to hone their skills in an unfamiliar environment. Scinto emphasized that varied venue experiences are crucial for aspiring musicians: “Performing in different-sized venues helps students learn to adapt their performance techniques, equipment, and stage presence," he commented.

The Sunday Night Rock Show underscored collaboration's role in fostering creativity and community spirit. PVCC and GCC will collaborate again on December 16 at The 44 Sports Grill in Glendale for another performance starting at 7 PM.

For more information on future events, visit PVCC’s Center for Performing Arts website.