In what has become an annual tradition for its final concert of the season, the USF Jazz Ensemble 

turns the spotlight on the contemporary: featuring some of the most acclaimed, award-winning works 

of the past couple of years as well as premiering the compositions of its own student members (and, 

upon occasion, its director, Chuck Owen).   Past-featured composers have included Maria 

Schneider, Rufus Reid, John Hollenbeck, Alan Ferber, Darcy James Argue, Jim McNeely, and 

others.  



In addition to recognizing the graduating ensemble members, the highlight of the concert will be the 

announcement and premier performance of this year s "Owen Prize" winning composition.  In 

addition to the featured premier, the winning student receives a $1,000 prize.