Get ready for another unforgettable night of music at the upcoming 12th Annual Scottsdale Community College (SCC) Music Department Showcase on Saturday, February 10, 2024. The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the George Benson Honorary Scholarship, graciously bestowed by the 10-time Grammy Award Winner himself. Mark your calendars for this extraordinary event featuring outstanding performances by SCC's most talented student and faculty musicians, as well as a showing from Mr. Benson.
George Benson is a legend of jazz, R&B, and pop music. The formation of his legacy has included reaching No. 1 on the Billboard charts, winning 10 Grammy Awards, and having a star placed in his honor on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. George Benson was a musical prodigy during his childhood, making his first record at the age of 9. Benson understands the value of exploring the musical arts during early development and has supported the sponsorship of students at SCC since 2011.
Elenasia Zocco is this year’s George Benson Honorary Scholarship recipient. A talented multi-instrumentalist, she is a Music Performance Major specializing in Flute. She also plays the piccolo, trumpet, piano, and cymbals! “I really love learning new instruments,” says Zocco. “They are challenging in their own unique ways, and it's a great feeling when performing on them.”
Zocco recalls the challenges of auditioning with a particularly difficult solo in middle school, ultimately beating out older students with more experience. “That was a really big moment for me. That was when I learned that I could be rewarded greatly for the work I put in, and I fell in love with music.”
“So far, my favorite musical memory was performing in the Voices of the Winds concert this past December. Being surrounded by and performing with so many talented musicians was a really fun experience, and I hope to have more opportunities to perform!”
With her talent and work ethic, there is no doubt that more opportunities are to come. Zocco aims to perform as much as possible after graduating, gathering experience that she can use to teach future musicians.
After the evening’s performances, the showcase will conclude with an auction, with proceeds benefiting the SCC Music Department Scholarship Fund. Up for bid is an exclusive item from George Benson's signature line – a beautiful autographed Ibanez guitar. Don't miss your chance to own these unique pieces while supporting aspiring musicians. Bidding opens on February 1 on 32auctions.com.
Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the enchanting performances kick off at 7:30 p.m. in the SCC Performing Arts Center. Seating is limited, so secure your seats early! Reserve your tickets here.
For additional details, contact the SCC Music Department at 480-423-6333. Join us for an evening of musical brilliance and support the future of aspiring musicians!
About the SCC Music Department
SCC offers a high-quality musical experience through classroom, private instruction, and performance opportunities. Our comprehensive course offerings serve students who are music majors, as well as those who enroll to meet college requirements, or for personal interest. In addition to traditional music performance, SCC also offers an innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in today's music industry. We offer comprehensive educational and support classes that enable students to achieve their academic and personal potential.