ABOUT ZABRIEL

Gullah Geechie, performer Zabriel is a cultural artist, making his mark in classical music and theater. Known for his stage presence and commitment to storytelling, he has appeared on some of the most prestigious stages. With a deep commitment to storytelling, he has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, captivating audiences with his powerful performances. His credits include Ballad to a Brown King (2024) and Stabat Mater (2023) at Carnegie Hall, Freedom Song: When Gospel Came to the Empire with the Rochester Oratorio Society (April & September 2024) and Watch Night at the Perelman Arts Center (2023). In theater, he starred in Jubilee at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival (2023) and Cosmic Cowboy at the Emerson Paramount Theater (2022).

Beyond the stage, Zabriel is deeply invested in preserving and promoting Gullah culture through music and storytelling. His work seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary artistry, ensuring that the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee people continues to inspire new generations. As an educator, he has shaped young musicians as a general and choral music teacher in both Montgomery Public Schools and Elmore County Public Schools, teaching students from preschool through eighth grade. His expertise extends to higher education, where he served as a graduate assistant at the New England Conservatory of Music, teaching voice instruction and assisting with courses in vocal music education.

Zabriel holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Alabama State University. His dedication to music education has led him to present research at the Alabama Music Education Association and serve in leadership roles within the College Music Society and AMEA. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his contributions to performance and education, receiving honors such as the Outstanding & Tenured Teacher award in Elmore County and the Carly C. Johnson Outstanding Undergraduate in Music award from Alabama State University.

With a passion for performance, education, and cultural advocacy, Zabriel continues to make an impact, using his voice to celebrate history, uplift communities, and inspire artistic excellence.