As a percussionist (Vibes and Marimba) and multi-instrumentalist, Scott has enjoyed many years of diverse musical adventures. A native of Elkhart, he began his percussion training (at the age of five) with legendary teacher Alene Trafford. He also studied several years with Chicago percussionist Bobby Christian (session musician/Ludwig clinician). Scott graduated from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music with a Jazz Performance Degree. While at Cincinnati, he had the opportunity to study multiple years with Allen Otte (founder of Black Earth and Cincinnati Percussion Group), and John Von Ohlen (Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Blue Wisp Big Band). Scott is currently a professor at Grace College (Winona Lake, Indiana) teaching Percussion and Advanced Recording for the Music Arts Program.
Scott continues to enjoy an active recording career. He has recorded in both LA (w/ Kirt Whalum at Fantasy Studios) and Nashville (Grammy award winners Ashley Cleveland, Tommy Sims). Scott has also had the privilege of sharing the stage with jazz greats such as Ira Sullivan, Ernie Watts, Cal Collins, Red Rodney, Henry Johnson, and James Brown drummer De Felice.
Throughout the years, Scott has also composed, produced and recorded music for radio, TV and film projects. Clients include Walt Disney, Ringling Brothers, Sears, Alcoa and Van Doren Reeds.
Scott released his first solo instrumental album, “Rhythm One”, in the fall of 2022. It features him on a variety of instruments, including Vibes, Marimba, Guitars, Piano, and other percussion instruments. On this project, Scott composed all of the tunes and played all the instruments. In November of 2024, Scott released an instrumental Christmas album, ‘Tis the Season” (vinyl, CD & streaming). Both are available at his website and through all streaming sources.
Scott has played various music festivals throughout Cincinnati, OH and Northern Indiana. Playing at the Elkhart Jazz Fest is always an honor! Accomplished pianist and educator, Wally Brath (Grace College), will be one of the musician sharing the stage with Scott at this year’s performance.