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.