The University of Santiago, Chile (Usach), has announced an extensive lineup of free cultural programming for the remainder of April, aiming to decentralize access to the arts across the capital.
The schedule includes concerts by professional ensembles, fantasy film series, and workshops, extending its reach beyond the Estación Central campus to districts such as Independencia, Cerro Navidad, and La Granja.
“This orchestra is located in a part of the capital that lacks classical music programming, which is typically concentrated in the city center or the eastern districts,” explained Andrés Zúñiga Mella, head of Usach's Department of Extension.
Heritage and Community
The institution maintains an artistic tradition dating back to the former School of Arts and Crafts, having once hosted legendary figures such as Víctor Jara and the group Inti-Illimani.
Today, the Usach Orchestra leads this effort, having premiered more than 15 world premieres of Chilean classical music over the last decade, supported by the Aula Records label to promote new works.
Attendance figures reflect a direct impact on the western Santiago sector. Forty percent of the audience comes from areas such as Estación Central, Santiago, and Maipú, with a majority of attendees being young adults between the ages of 19 and 39.
“A well-rounded education necessarily requires our students to participate in spaces that go far beyond what they learn in the classroom,” noted Dr. Mauricio Guerra Velásquez, Vice Rector of Community Engagement.
In addition to music, the university offers nearly 60 semester-long courses in areas such as dance, painting, and comics. This offering is complemented by student-led initiatives, such as the Hanwa group, dedicated to Korean culture, and the Espacio Musical organization.
To wrap up April, the program highlights the 5th Fantasy Film Showcase, featuring a screening ofDr. Jekyll & Mr. Hydeon Wednesday the 15th, and a concert by the Cuarteto Austral on Tuesday the 21st.