Posted on their Facebook page –

As part of La Posada’s Life of the Mind seminar series, residents stepped beyond campus and into a rich learning experience—one that engaged the senses, sparked curiosity, and deepened connection through music.

This field trip took residents to the charming town of Patagonia, Arizona, where they discovered the remarkable Benderly-Kendall Opera House, part of the Santa Cruz Foundation For The Performing Arts. Founded by Christina Wilhelm and lovingly called an “opera house,” this intimate venue hosts an extraordinary range of music—from classical to folk—designed for deep listening and shared discovery.

Residents didn’t just attend a concert; they learned at every step. They explored how acoustics shape sound in a small performance space, how community-based arts organizations thrive, and how music reflects culture and history. The December afternoon performance by El SurCo transported listeners through the musical landscapes of Argentina, Chile, and neighboring regions, blending guitars, violin, charango, bombo, and vocal harmonies into a vibrant cultural lesson.

From understanding the mission behind the venue to experiencing global traditions through live performance, this Life of the Mind experience reminds everyone that learning is most powerful when it’s shared—together, in community, and in moments that surprise and delight.