Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts

Vision
Within the next 3-5 years, grow the Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts (AAPA) into Arizona's leader in providing unique and excellent youth performing arts education, opportunities and resources.

Mission
Building Great People Through Great Performances.

History
AAPA is a 501(c) 3 non-profit Youth Arts organization founded in 2001. The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps is AAPA’s most capital intensive program. It was first developed in 2002 and debuted in 2004. The Corps surprised many by winning all six of its first competitions in California and Arizona. 116 student musicians spent over 300 hours rehearsing throughout the year, preparing for the intense tour of competitions for the 2005 season. They continued their winning efforts with 12 consecutive victories across Arizona, California and Colorado.

In the 2006 season, the corps grew to 135 members and astonished audiences by continuing their winning ways. The Academy leadership had already decided to take this group to Madison, Wisconsin for the 2006 DCI World Championships. This proved to be a wise decision as they won the Drum Corps International (DCI) Division II Championship and the Spirit of Disney Award. Director Mark Richardson was also named Director of the Year for providing a positive example and inspiring greatness from his students.