These organizations add to the vibrancy of our campus culture and create venues for artistic expression.
Our student-run arts organizations can also spark and develop student discovery in academic, cultural, social and recreational activities. Whether you’re interested in trying out for a play, sparring with your wit, or learning a musical instrument, we have options for you.
List of Student-Run Performing Arts Organizations
Headband
Contact Seth Bell & Advisor: Bryce Tomlin
Headband is a vivacious group of tenors, basses, and vocal percussionists who perform contemporary a cappella music in a variety of genres. Headband performs on Willamette's campus, sings around the west coast, travels to regional festivals, and competes in the International Competition of Collegiate A Cappella. (Check them out on YouTube and Spotify, or on social media @headbandwu.)
Improv Club
Contact Colin Troesken & Advisor: EJ Reinagel
We promote, perform and teach improvisational theatre methods to our fellow Willamette community members.
Music Teachers National Association - Collegiate Chapter
Contact Erica Campbell & Advisor: Crystal Zimmerman
We are all about advancing musical knowledge and education. We promote the art of music, advance musical educational activities, and work to spread an appreciation of music among the community.
Poi Club
Contact Jessica Deely & Advisor: Rich Dennis
We promote, express and teach the art of poi on campus. The Poi dance was originally used by the Maori women for keeping their hands flexible for weaving, and by the men for strength and coordination required during battle. We gather regularly to practice and improve each others' skills. Performances are in conjunction with other clubs, including the DJ and Hawaii clubs. The tools used in making poi are varied; they include poi balls, glowsticks, zuni, beaming poi and fine poi, among others.
Sanshin Club
Contact Anna Kronkow & Advisor: Miho Fujiwara
Our Sanshin Club learns and performs on this traditional Okinawan musical instrument, and shares Japanese history and culture with Salem-area schools and community groups. The Sanshin Club is open to Willamette undergraduate and American Studies Program (ASP) students.
Taiko Club
Contact Erin Tokutomi & Advisor: Miho Fujiwara
Our Taiko drumming club gives students a chance to learn the traditional Japanese ways playing the instrument. We perform for Willamette students and in the local community to expand the knowledge of this Japanese tradition.
Tandem
Contact Kyle Salois & Advisor: Paul Klemme
Tandem is a co-ed, a cappella choir that arranges, learns and performs a variety of popular music.
Up Top
Contact Brady McDevitt & Advisor: Chris Engbretson
Up Top is a student-run, treble a cappella group comprised of full-time Willamette students of any major. It strives to promote a creative performance outlet through performing and arranging original and “covered” vocal pieces.
Willamette Dance Company
Contact Bethany Abbate & Advisor: Lisa Holliday
We are a group of dancers and dance enthusiasts who create and perform a dance concert each semester.