Step 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鈥檚 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.
That is, when he is not immersed in his international labor law career, handling cases at every level, including 11 before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Cynthia shares her husband鈥檚 passion for both history and the arts. Before retiring, she served 34 years as director of the nearby Henry B. Plant Museum, which she grew significantly in funding and stature. She previously spent several years as legislative aide to County Commissioner Jan Platt and five years working with The Florida Orchestra.
So it seemed only natural that the couple would themselves make history while elevating the arts at USF. Their recent $2.5 million gift to the College of Design, Art and Performance 鈥� the largest single donation ever to the college 鈥� has also named the state-of-the-art concert venue at the Tampa campus鈥� School of Music. It is now the Peter and Cynthia Zinober Concert Hall.
Continue reading on the .