Sophomore Greg Zabel has won the Central Florida Jazz Society 2013 Scholarship. Zabel was one of seven finalists following a preliminary round consisting of a recorded performance. Four of the finalists were UCF students. Zabel will receive a $2000 prize that he expects to put toward the purchase of a new bass and amp.
When Zabel auditioned for the Music Department just two years ago, he was quite inexperienced on the bass. Nevertheless, Richard Drexler, a jazz faculty member and touring professional, recognized his potential. Zabel has consistently improved during his time at UCF.
Jeff Rupert, director of Jazz Studies at UCF, declares, “Winning this scholarship as a sophomore speaks to his work ethic, talent, and the instruction he is receiving here at UCF.”
Zabel and three other UCF students are also finalists in the Bob Washington scholarship, which will be held in Leesburg later this month.