Help Catherine raise money for a new viola!

Hi, my name is Catherine Ziegler! I am a violist graduating from the University of Florida this spring (2023). I will be graduating Summa Cum Laude with degrees in Music and Sustainability Studies. I plan to attend grad school for music performance and pursue a career in classical music.

I received my current viola in 7th grade from my late dad, Gary Ziegler. Although it has served me well for the past decade, it's an amateur instrument, and I need to upgrade. The Cade Foundation has loaned out two lovely instruments to me for the past year, but it will be time for me to pass them on to the next student when I graduate.

Dr. Robert Cade invented Gatorade at UF and played in the University Symphony while a professor here. Shortly after his passing in 2007, his family initiated a project to loan these fine instruments out to UF music students. Both violas in the collection were made right here in Alachua County, and one of them had never been checked out by a UF student. For my senior honors project, I decided to highlight this piece of local history and celebrate this underappreciated instrument. I premiered a work composed specially for the viola by my dear friend, Emelia Urlich, at our joint recital this spring.

I have been working hard to save up for a better instrument, but quality violas can be an expensive investment, and I need help. In lieu of birthday gifts or graduation gifts, I would really appreciate contributions towards a new instrument. Any donation, even a small one, would mean so much to me as I work towards this goal. Thank you!!