Mark your calendars for an extraordinary evening of music and celebration at Scottsdale Community College’s 13th Annual Music Department Showcase on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Featuring stellar performances by SCC’s talented student and faculty musicians, the evening culminates with the presentation of the George Benson Honorary Scholarship. Mr. Benson will not be in attendance.
George Benson’s illustrious career spans jazz, R&B, and pop, earning him multiple Grammys, chart-topping hits, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A musical prodigy who recorded his first song at age 9, Benson has been an inspiration for generations of musicians. Since 2011, he has supported SCC’s music students by establishing the George Benson Honorary Scholarship, empowering young artists to pursue their dreams.
This year’s scholarship recipient is Adrian Oliva, a gifted guitarist and versatile musician with a passion for jazz and composition.
Adrian’s musical journey began in 6th grade, when his father introduced him to guitar. From there, he taught himself guitar and drums while mastering concert percussion through school programs. “I’ve always tried to take every musical opportunity I can by playing with as many ensembles as possible and listening to as much music as I can find,” Adrian says. Guitar remains his primary instrument, as it’s the one he feels most able to communicate through.
Now a 19-year-old Music Performance major, Adrian’s dedication to his craft has earned him the prestigious scholarship. Reflecting on the recognition, he says, “Receiving the George Benson Honorary Scholarship has made me feel encouraged, supported, and seen. I work hard as a student and musician, and I am incredibly happy and grateful to be recognized.”
Adrian’s goals include earning a master’s degree and pursuing a career as a jazz performer and educator. “I plan to perform as a jazz guitarist for the most part, composing my own music and accompanying other great musicians.” Adrian is especially excited to perform alongside the SCC faculty and share his passion for music with the audience and Mr. Benson.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
- Time: Performances begin at 7:30 p.m.
- Location: SCC Performing Arts Center, 9000 E. Chaparral Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
- Admission: $20 General / $10 Student. Donations will be gratefully accepted at the door.
- Tickets: Reserve your seat here.
The Scottsdale Community College Music Department will be hosting an auction of one Ibanez George Benson Signature GB10EMAA hollow body electric guitar, featuring a spruce top, linden back and sides, bound walnut fretboard with acrylic block inlay, Magic Touch-Mini Humbucker neck and bridge pickup, and chrome hardware.
Brand new and autographed by George Benson.
All proceeds from this auction go to the Scottsdale Community College (SCC) Music Department Scholarship Fund, which helps our students succeed in achieving their dreams of pursuing careers in music. The staff and faculty of SCC are grateful for your generous support.
The auction begins Monday, February 3, at 4:00 pm. Submit your bids here.
For additional details, contact the SCC Music Department at (480) 423-6333.
Don’t miss this spectacular evening of musical brilliance and community celebration. Join us to support the next generation of musicians and experience the magic of SCC’s thriving music program!