February 14, 2003

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Reginald Yarbrough of Fairfield took home first prize and was named “UAB Idol” in the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) 2003 Student Talent Search on Thursday, February 13, at the Alys Stephens Center.

Yarbrough, 21, sang and played piano on an original composition, “Missing You.” Yarbrough received a $500 prize. He is majoring in music technology.

Second prize went to Phaedra Henderson, 22, of Birmingham, who sang “I Believe in You and Me,” originally performed by Whitney Houston. Brian Hall of Montgomery and Jarrod Clark of Memphis accompanied her on piano and drums. Henderson is majoring in early child elementary education. She received a $250 prize. Third prize went to Bao Pham, who played “Prelude No. 1” by Villa-Labos on acoustic guitar. Pham, 20, of Montgomery, is majoring in music technology. He received a trophy.

Ten students competed in the event. Also featured was a special performance from Jeremy “Evan” Mitchell, a former UAB student and a regular in the UAB Talent Search Competition. Judges were: Philip Musa Ph.D., from the UAB School of Business; Henry Panion, Ph.D., of the UAB Department of Music; Craig Beard of the UAB Library; Cari Cates from 103.7 FM The Q; and Sam Nugent, worship director at Pelham Baptist Church. Student service fees pay for the competition.