https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/Recent posts from Newsen-usWed, 22 Jul 2026 13:04:02 -04:00http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rssOmniUpdate (OU Publish)https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260508-dr-kathy-sanz-accepts-honorary-doctor-of-the-arts.aspxAlumna Dr. Kathleen (Kathy) Sanz accepted an honorary Doctor of the Arts from the University of South Florida, and delivered remarks at the College of Design, Art & Performance's graduation celebration. She earned her B.A. and M.A. in music education from the University of South Florida and her Ph.D. from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Her career spans from classroom teaching to leading global initiatives as President of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). Through her leadership, Florida has been positioned as a national leader in music education.Michelle Sabo-Sherwood, College of Design, Art & Performance, with commencement photography by Torie Doll, University of South FloridaFri, 08 May 2026 11:45:46 Dr. Kathleen (Kathy) Sanz Accepts Honorary Doctor of the ArtsAlumna Dr. Kathleen (Kathy) Sanz accepted an honorary Doctor of the Arts from the University of South Florida, and delivered remarks at the College of Design, Art & Performance's graduation celebration. She earned her B.A. and M.A. in music education from the University of South Florida and her Ph.D. from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Her career spans from classroom teaching to leading global initiatives as President of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). Through her leadership, Florida has been positioned as a national leader in music education.Left to right: President Moez Limayem, Dr. Kathleen (Kathy) Sanz, and Dean Chris Garvinhttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260508-dr-kathy-sanz-accepts-honorary-doctor-of-the-arts.aspxGraphicstudio,Music,Students & Alumnihttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260313-spotlight-a-day-of-celebration.aspxThe energy set the tone at the second annual USF College of Design, Art & Performance SPOTLIGHT! daylong festival of the arts! Nearly 1,500 attendees gathered on an overcast day to celebrate the 130+ students who showcased their creative talents.Michelle Sabo-Sherwood, College of Design, Art & Performance, and photography by Andres Faza, University of South Florida, and Cristina Klein PhotographyThu, 12 Mar 2026 16:16:22 SPOTLIGHT! Festival: A Day of CelebrationThe energy set the tone at the second annual USF College of Design, Art & Performance SPOTLIGHT! daylong festival of the arts! Nearly 1,500 attendees gathered on an overcast day to celebrate the 130+ students who showcased their creative talents.Images of students performing.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260313-spotlight-a-day-of-celebration.aspxArchitecture,Art & Art History,Community Outreach,Graphicstudio,Music,Theatre & Dance,USF CAMhttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260216-honoring-tradition-through-a-world-class-wind-ensemble-conference-experience.aspxThe University of South Florida College of Design, Art & Performance School of Music will host the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) regional conference, February 19-21. Expanding on its 2018 role as host institution, USF again brings together national leadership for a multi-day exchange of ideas, repertoire, and performances.Michelle Sabo-SherwoodMon, 16 Feb 2026 15:52:10 Honoring Tradition through a World-Class Wind Ensemble Conference ExperienceThe University of South Florida College of Design, Art & Performance School of Music will host the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) regional conference, February 19-21. Expanding on its 2018 role as host institution, USF again brings together national leadership for a multi-day exchange of ideas, repertoire, and performances.USF Wind Ensemble members in bulls fountain in front of Marshall Center.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260216-honoring-tradition-through-a-world-class-wind-ensemble-conference-experience.aspxMusic,Students & Alumnihttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260128-usf-earns-national-recognition-for-community-engagement.aspxThe University of South Florida has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a prestigious national designation awarded by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.Tina Meketa, University Communications and MarketingWed, 28 Jan 2026 11:08:43 USF earns national recognition for community engagementThe University of South Florida has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a prestigious national designation awarded by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.Members of the Herd of Thunder play at Raymond James Stadium.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260128-usf-earns-national-recognition-for-community-engagement.aspxCommunity Outreach,Musichttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260115-music-memory-and-service.aspxThe University of South Florida School of Music, NEA Research Labs’ Cognition and Coordination in Music Across the Lifespan has received a grant from the National Association for Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation to support research exploring how music can contribute to cognitive health and well-being among veterans.Michelle Sabo-Sherwood, College of Design, Art & PerformanceThu, 15 Jan 2026 10:09:36 Music, Memory, and Service: Supporting Veterans Through ResearchThe University of South Florida School of Music, NEA Research Labs’ Cognition and Coordination in Music Across the Lifespan has received a grant from the National Association for Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation to support research exploring how music can contribute to cognitive health and well-being among veterans.Trombone players in camouflage military uniform. https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2026/20260115-music-memory-and-service.aspxMusic,Researchhttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20251107-usf-and-the-florida-orchestra-unite-to-advance-music-education-and-community-connection.aspxThe USF College of Design, Art & Performance and The Florida Orchestra have formed a groundbreaking new partnership to elevate music education, inspire artistic expression and strengthen community engagement.Michelle Sabo-Sherwood, College of Design, Art & Performance, Kelly Smith, Chief Communications Officer, The Florida Orchestra, Photography and Video by Bryce Womeldurf,College of Design, Art & PerformanceFri, 07 Nov 2025 16:17:56 USF and The Florida Orchestra unite to advance music education and community connectionThe USF College of Design, Art & Performance and The Florida Orchestra have formed a groundbreaking new partnership to elevate music education, inspire artistic expression and strengthen community engagement.Chelsea Gallo conducts the Symphony Orchestrahttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20251107-usf-and-the-florida-orchestra-unite-to-advance-music-education-and-community-connection.aspxMusichttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20251010-green-and-gold-in-motion-herd-of-thunder.aspxThe University of South Florida’s Herd of Thunder marching band will bring green and gold to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime show this Sunday, Oct. 12. The performance will feature 348 student musicians and field formations at Raymond James Stadium as they perform an energetic Motown-inspired musical arrangement that celebrates rhythm, unity and school pride. For many band members, this is the second year in a row to play during a Bucs game. It’s one of the university’s many ties to the NFL team, which hosts a number of fellowship and mentoring opportunities for USF students.Michelle Sabo-Sherwood, College of Design, Art & Performance, with Photography by Bryce Womeldurf & Cristina KleinMon, 13 Oct 2025 00:09:22 Green and gold in motion: Herd of Thunder ignited Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime showThe University of South Florida’s Herd of Thunder marching band will bring green and gold to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime show this Sunday, Oct. 12. The performance will feature 348 student musicians and field formations at Raymond James Stadium as they perform an energetic Motown-inspired musical arrangement that celebrates rhythm, unity and school pride. For many band members, this is the second year in a row to play during a Bucs game. It’s one of the university’s many ties to the NFL team, which hosts a number of fellowship and mentoring opportunities for USF students.Members of the Herd of Thunder play at Raymond James Stadium during the Bucs vs 49ers game.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20251010-green-and-gold-in-motion-herd-of-thunder.aspxMusichttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250501-when-the-lights-came-up-spotlight-festival.aspxIt didn’t just showcase art. It made a statement. On Friday, April 25, the University of South Florida’s College of Design, Art & Performance launched the first-ever SPOTLIGHT Festival, an ambitious, campus-wide celebration that transformed performance and exhibition spaces into a living, breathing showcase of creative energy. Designed to illuminate the force and vision powering the college, SPOTLIGHT didn’t just open its doors to the public—it invited them into the heart of the work.Jesus Gogo - College of Design, Art & Performance Communications and Marketing, Photography by Bryce WomeldurfThu, 01 May 2025 14:31:38 When the Lights Came Up: SPOTLIGHT Festival Marks a Bold New Chapter in Creative EducationIt didn’t just showcase art. It made a statement. On Friday, April 25, the University of South Florida’s College of Design, Art & Performance launched the first-ever SPOTLIGHT Festival, an ambitious, campus-wide celebration that transformed performance and exhibition spaces into a living, breathing showcase of creative energy. Designed to illuminate the force and vision powering the college, SPOTLIGHT didn’t just open its doors to the public—it invited them into the heart of the work.A collage of images from the first SPOTLIGHT festival.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250501-when-the-lights-came-up-spotlight-festival.aspxArchitecture,Art & Art History,Community Outreach,Music,Theatre & Dance,USF CAMhttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250501-the-road-not-taken.aspxOn Tuesday, May 6, internationally renowned pianist, educator, and artistic director Idith Meshulam Korman returns to her roots at the University of South Florida for a powerful evening of performance and reflection. Taking place at the USF School of Music’s Barness Recital Hall, The Road Not Taken will spotlight underperformed and historically overlooked works in a program that blends intimacy, virtuosity, and vision. Following the performance, WSMR’s Bethany Cagle, of West Central Florida’s only classical music station, will moderate a conversation with the artist.Jesus Gogo - College of Design, Art & Performance Communications and MarketingThu, 01 May 2025 11:09:40 The Road Not Taken: Idith Meshulam Korman Returns to USF for a Rare Musical ExperienceOn Tuesday, May 6, internationally renowned pianist, educator, and artistic director Idith Meshulam Korman returns to her roots at the University of South Florida for a powerful evening of performance and reflection. Taking place at the USF School of Music’s Barness Recital Hall, The Road Not Taken will spotlight underperformed and historically overlooked works in a program that blends intimacy, virtuosity, and vision. Following the performance, WSMR’s Bethany Cagle, of West Central Florida’s only classical music station, will moderate a conversation with the artist.Idith Meshulam Korman performs on the piano.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250501-the-road-not-taken.aspxMusichttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250414-spotlight-2025-a-festival-bringing-design-art-and-performance-to-life.aspxMark your calendar. On Friday, April 25, the College of Design, Art & Performance at the University of South Florida is launching its inaugural SPOTLIGHT Festival – a bold celebration of creativity and talent that’s free and open to all. This isn’t just another campus event. It’s a statement. A living testament to the way art and design can shift perspectives and spark something deeper.Jesus Gogo - College of Design, Art & Performance Communications and MarketingMon, 14 Apr 2025 00:18:33 SPOTLIGHT 2025: A Festival Bringing Design, Art & Performance to LifeMark your calendar. On Friday, April 25, the College of Design, Art & Performance at the University of South Florida is launching its inaugural SPOTLIGHT Festival – a bold celebration of creativity and talent that’s free and open to all. This isn’t just another campus event. It’s a statement. A living testament to the way art and design can shift perspectives and spark something deeper.1966 image of the USF FAH building.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250414-spotlight-2025-a-festival-bringing-design-art-and-performance-to-life.aspxArchitecture,Art & Art History,Community Outreach,Music,Theatre & Dancehttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250320-theres-perfect-harmony-in-usf-concert-halls-new-name.aspxStep into the South Tampa home of Pete and Cynthia Zinober and the classical musical soundtrack of their life becomes instantly evident. A well-worn piano that belonged to Pete’s mother anchors a cozy room to the right; vintage brass instruments cast a soft glow from various corners. Pete proudly displays the 1892 valve trombone he bought for a steal on eBay for $300, as well as a 1920 Conn Wonder cornet and a 1926 double-bell euphonium. Prominently displayed is a Miraphone euphonium, with which he performs as principal euphonium in the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band and the Tampa Community Band.Dave ScheiberThu, 20 Mar 2025 14:44:06 There's perfect harmony in USF concert hall's new nameStep into the South Tampa home of Pete and Cynthia Zinober and the classical musical soundtrack of their life becomes instantly evident. A well-worn piano that belonged to Pete’s mother anchors a cozy room to the right; vintage brass instruments cast a soft glow from various corners. Pete proudly displays the 1892 valve trombone he bought for a steal on eBay for $300, as well as a 1920 Conn Wonder cornet and a 1926 double-bell euphonium. Prominently displayed is a Miraphone euphonium, with which he performs as principal euphonium in the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band and the Tampa Community Band.Pete and Cynthia Zinoberhttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250320-theres-perfect-harmony-in-usf-concert-halls-new-name.aspxAnnouncements,Musichttps://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250214-usf-professor-ya-hui-cheng-honored-for-groundbreaking-research-in-music.aspxMusic isn’t just something we listen to -- it is a living record of cultural evolution. Dr. Ya-Hui Cheng, Associate Professor of Music Theory at the College of Design, Art & Performance’s School of Music at the University of South Florida, has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field.Jesus Gogo - College of Design, Art & Performance Communications and MarketingFri, 14 Feb 2025 09:54:31 USF Professor Ya-Hui Cheng Honored for Groundbreaking Research in MusicMusic isn’t just something we listen to -- it is a living record of cultural evolution. Dr. Ya-Hui Cheng, Associate Professor of Music Theory at the College of Design, Art & Performance’s School of Music at the University of South Florida, has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field.An orange sun in a red sky.https://www.usf.edu/arts/news/2025/20250214-usf-professor-ya-hui-cheng-honored-for-groundbreaking-research-in-music.aspxFaculty,Music,Research