When it comes to the start of the year, overwhelming can be an understatement. The tidal wave of emails, pamphlets and handouts swarming campus during the first weeks of fall semester makes it is easy to overlook information.

Yet for Pacific Lutheran University’s clubs and organizations, this is an important time to start attracting interested new members.

Among the multitude of clubs and organizations, music and theater groups shine. For those looking for a chance to become involved, here is a simple breakdown of some of the best arts and entertainment related organizations PLU has to offer.

The HERmonic and PLUtonic a cappella groups are upbeat, competitive and talented. Honing in on a shared love of a cappella music, these groups also tour and compete against other schools at a national level. They hold auditions in early September and perform in Lagerquist Concert Hall and throughout the community during the year.

The PLU Jazz Choir is an opportunity for music students to play, sing and perform jazz music. This choir goes on tour as well as performs periodically throughout the school year. For more information, visit their website.

The American Choral Directors Association is for students with a passion for choral music. This organization aims to inspire members to excel in choral music through networking and performance opportunities, workshops and teacher panels. They meet monthly and hope to attend the 2013 National Conference in Dallas.

Other musically-minded students can turn to Mu Phi Epsilon, an internationally recognized music fraternity with a mission to sponsor musicianship, support service to the school and community and spread an appreciation of music and friendship through music. This small group creates opportunities for members to perform and serve in the community. To get involved, check out the Mu Phi Epsilon website.

For theater, students can turn to PLU’s Alphi Psi Omega, “a national theatre honor society devoted to supporting student-produced theatre,” according to its website. This group will perform in a variety of plays and will hold auditions four to six weeks before each show.  To find out more information about becoming involved in Alphi Psi Omega, email theatre@plu.edu.

For those who love dance and meeting new people, the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere of Swing Club may be just the place. Meetings are held weekly in the Cave. Anyone, regardless of dance ability, may join at anytime. Swing Club will begin in early September.

With these opportunities in mind, now is the time to get involved. Not only can great opportunities, memories and connections be found by joining the aforementioned organizations, but 64 other clubs and organizations are also welcoming new Lutes. Attend a meeting, audition or simply check out a club website to get started.

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