The Tap department’s new chair, Melinda Sullivan, brings a diverse history of experience as an educator, performer, and choreographer, and a passion for tap as a dance form, its unique musicality, and artistic possibilities.  

A new season means new opportunities at the Trudl Zipper Dance Institute. Artistic Director Janie Taylor discusses season highlights, plans for performances, and a sneak peek at what’s ahead for the future home for Dance at the new Colburn building. 

For a quarter of a century, Summer Encounter has presented the possibilities of the performing arts to grade-schoolers, many of whom have called it a transformational experience. Here, we share some special moments from Summer Encounter over the the past 25 years. 

Colburn alumni shared the stage with the Colburn Orchestra, led by Esa-Pekka Salonen, LA Phil New Music Group, L.A. Dance Project, and more at the 2026 Ojai Music Festival. 

While spending a year on the road together, Michelle Shin, Juan-Salvador Carrasco, and Lucinda Chiu learned they’re not just colleagues, they’re all members of the Colburn family. They also learned how Colburn training continues to enable them to take on new and varied musical opportunities.