The Arts at USU: February Events Preview

This February, the Caine College of the Arts invites audiences to a vibrant array of events showcasing talent and creativity. From stunning exhibitions and engaging lectures to unforgettable performances in music and theatre, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Read below for more details about these coming events, and subscribe to the weekly events reminder email.

8th Annual Paper & Clay Exhibition

Feb. 3–March 7, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tippetts & Eccles Galleries

The Paper & Clay is a national juried exhibition open to all BFA & MFA printmaking and ceramic students across the country. This is the 8th annual exhibition which will showcase over 60 exceptional contemporary student works from various academic institutions.

Faculty Saxophone Recital

Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Join Dr. Andrew Stonerock for an evening of both classical and jazz saxophone music. The recital will feature a classical section with pianist Mayumi Matzen, showcasing works by composers Paul Bonneau, Fernande Decruck, and Jules Demersseman. Following that, the program transitions to an exciting jazz portion, where Dr. Stonerock will be joined by Corey Christiansen (guitar), Braun Khan (bass), and Jason Nicholson (drums). The jazz repertoire includes compositions by Billy Strayhorn, Kenny Garrett, The Beatles, along with original works by the ensemble.

This dynamic performance offers a rich blend of musical styles, and is sure to be a memorable evening of artistry and virtuosity. Join Dr. Andrew Stonerock for an evening of both classical and jazz saxophone music. The recital will feature a classical section with pianist Mayumi Matzen, showcasing works by composers Paul Bonneau, Fernande Decruck, and Jules Demersseman. Following that, the program transitions to an exciting jazz portion, where Dr. Stonerock will be joined by Corey Christiansen (guitar), Braun Khan (bass), and Jason Nicholson (drums). The jazz repertoire includes compositions by Billy Strayhorn, Kenny Garrett, The Beatles, along with original works by the ensemble.

This dynamic performance offers a rich blend of musical styles, and is sure to be a memorable evening of artistry and virtuosity.

Communitas Lecture Series: Renee Cox

Feb. 6, 5 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Renee Cox is a renowned Jamaican-American artist, photographer, and activist whose work challenges societal norms surrounding race, gender, and identity. Born in 1960 in Colgate, Jamaica, and raised in New York, Cox is known for using her art as a platform to address issues of oppression, the representation of Black bodies, and the intersections of race and feminism.

The Communitas Lecture Series is a set of visiting artists, scholars, and design series. This series is free and open to the public.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime

Feb. 7–8 and 11–14, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 8 and 15, 1 p.m.

Fifteen-year-old Christopher finds himself under suspicion of killing his neighbor’s dog, Wellington. In search for the real culprit, he embarks on a thrilling journey which turns his world upside down. A profoundly moving play about fractured families, trust, and braving the unknown.

American Festival Chorus & Orchestra Encore! The Music of Broadway and Hollywood

Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

Revel in the melodies of classic tunes and tap along to show-stopping favorites as GENTRI’s Casey Elliott returns to join AFCO in an encore performance of music from the American Songbook. From George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Rodgers & Hammerstein to the music of today, we know these hits will leave audiences feeling charmed and inspired.

Aria Competition

Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Join us for the Aria Competition, an exciting showcase of talented undergraduate classical singers. Participating voice majors will be competing for a $500 tuition discount, performing in front of a panel of expert judges, including renowned baritone Andrew Garland. This is a unique opportunity to hear incredible live performances and support emerging talent. Mark your calendar for a memorable evening of music and skill.

SING!

Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

The evening will feature an eclectic mix of great choral music, including the Chamber Singers performing music from their recent concert at the Utah Music Educators Association conference in St. George, Utah. The concert will also feature a number of selections celebrating the Valentine's season, and the choirs will combine at the end to perform a few of the great love song hits from the past 50 years, with a few Valentine surprises for the audience. Bring your significant other and celebrate Valentine's with the great music of the combined USU choirs.

Jazz Nights at Elite Hall

Feb. 13–15, 6 p.m.

Elite Hall, 98 W Main Street, Hyrum

Join us Feb. 13–15 for this annual fundraiser to support two great causes: The Larry Smith Jazz Scholarship and The Elite Hall Restoration Fund. Throw yourself back to the roaring 20s and experience live music, dinner, and dancing on Utah's only spring-loaded dance floor.

Wassermann Piano Series presents Nikolai Lugansky

Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Experience the artistry of Nikolai Lugansky, hailed as “one of the most outstanding artists of our epoch” ("Le Monde"). Recognized as one of the finest Russian pianists of modern times, Mr. Lugansky is a laureate of the prestigious Tchaikovsky Competition (Moscow), International Bach Competition (Leipzig), and Mozarteum Academy (Salzburg).

With a repertoire spanning over 50 piano concertos, Lugansky has performed with leading orchestras across Russia, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States. His exceptional recordings for renowned labels such as Deutsche Grammophon, Harmonia Mundi, and Warner Classics have earned him international acclaim and cemented his legacy as a world-class musician.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the brilliance of a true master of the piano in an evening of extraordinary music.

Jazz Jams

Feb. 19, 7 p.m.

TSC Hub Moonlight Stage

Join us for the Jazz Jams Series. Each Jazz Jams session will showcase the Caine Jazz Combo, a special guest artist, and talented jazz students from the Music Department, all performing timeless jazz standards. Whether you're an enthusiast or a musician, you're invited to be part of the action — bring your instrument and join the jam session.

Jazz Jams will take place at the Hub Stage on the first floor of the Taggart Student Center. Don't miss this chance to experience great music and collaborate with fellow jazz lovers.

Communitas Lecture Series: Sage Perrott

Feb. 20, 5 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Sage Perrott, aka Haypeep, is a printmaker and educator originally from West Virginia. Her artwork features grumpy, lumpy, ghost-like creatures situated in cramped, often humorous circumstances. Perrott’s preferred process is screenprinting. She has degrees in printmaking from West Virginia University (BFA) and from Ohio University (MFA). Her prints, drawings, and zines have found their way into the hands of folks all over the United States and the world.

The Communitas Lecture Series is a set of visiting artists, scholars, and design series. This series is free and open to the public.

Symphonic Band

Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

Concerts are part of the band’s large ensemble curriculum. As capstone events, they typically occur twice per semester. Participation in these events is a significant component of students’ grades, and the concerts are the culmination of several weeks of classroom rehearsals. All concerts are associated with one or more of the following band ensembles: MUSC 4700 Wind Orchestra, MUSC 3795 Wind Symphony, MUSC 3790 Symphonic Band, and MUSC 3785 Marching Band.

FSQ at USU: Nature’s Resonance

Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Join us this February for an unforgettable evening of chamber music, showcasing both classical brilliance and bold contemporary innovation.

The program begins with Haydn’s "String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20, No. 4," a stunning example of the composer’s mastery in the quartet form. Part of his revolutionary Op. 20 set, this work captivates with its elegant interplay of voices and imaginative thematic development.

Continuing the program is the world premiere of a new work by composer Hitomi Oba, a rising star and member of Gabriela Lena Frank’s Academy. Known for her inventive style and fresh perspectives, Oba’s piece promises to be an inspiring addition to our season’s exploration of nature and music.

The evening concludes with Beethoven’s "String Quartet Op. 130," featuring the monumental "Grosse Fuge." This masterpiece, with its bold intensity and profound complexity, reflects the immense power of nature and the human spirit. This performance is part of a multi-year journey through Beethoven’s late quartets, culminating in the 2027-2028 season. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness a cornerstone of chamber music history unfold.

Reading Series 2: "Red Days" by Rachel Bublitz

Feb. 21–22, 7:30 p.m.

FAC 224 Black Box Theatre

As the air quality in Salt Lake climbs to crisis levels, we follow Dianna through four seasons, trying to balance school, her running team, and pursuing her passion. But as she nears the end of her senior year, she's forced to decide if her running dream truly belongs to her, or if it's more her mother's, while around her the serious effects of the air quality wreak havoc on those athletes who dare breathe hard in the open air.

American Festival Chorus High School Choral Festival

Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

This exceptional evening of choral music will showcase the many outstanding young singers in our region, as the American Festival Chorus is joined by members of local high school choral programs and the USU Chamber Singers. Your spirits will lift as you listen to hundreds of melodious voices joined in song. Please join us in supporting our next generation of musical talent.

Chamber Music Society of Logan presents Chanticleer

Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

The Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer is known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for its wide-ranging repertoire and dazzling virtuosity. “ … the world’s reigning male chorus.” — The New Yorker

2024 Concerto Competition Winners

Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

Enjoy the winners of the annual Student Concerto Competition as they perform favorite works of the solo repertoire.

Wind Orchestra

Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

Concerts are part of the band large ensemble curriculum. As capstone events, they typically occur twice per semester. Students are required to participate in these events as a large part of their grades, and these concerts are the culmination of several weeks of classroom rehearsals. All concerts are associated with one or more of the band ensembles: MUSC 4700 Wind Orchestra MUSC 3795 Wind Symphony MUSC 3790 Symphonic Band MUSC 3785 Marching Band.