Dr. Scott Jeppesen is an accomplished jazz educator, saxophonist, composer, and arranger with over a decade of experience in higher education and a distinguished career in jazz performance. Currently an Associate Professor of Music at Montana State University Billings (MSUB), he has been instrumental in developing the university's Commercial Music degree program, which has become one of the most popular and fastest-growing music programs on campus. Under his guidance, the MSUB music department has seen a significant increase in enrollment, with over 50 students now pursuing music degrees.
Known for his innovative integration of technology in music education, Dr. Jeppesen has pioneered the use of AI-driven assignments and interactive teaching methods that engage students in dynamic, hands-on learning experiences. He successfully blends traditional jazz pedagogy with modern applications, preparing students for real-world careers in the music industry. His dedication to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within jazz education is evident through his curriculum design, which emphasizes jazz's roots in African American culture and its evolution as a means of social expression.
As the Musical Director of the Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective, Dr. Jeppesen has led numerous themed concerts, collaborating with symphony orchestras, schools, and professional ensembles. He has arranged and composed over 40 published works, with pieces performed by ensembles nationwide. His albums, "El Guapo" and "Wonders," have garnered critical acclaim, showcasing his versatility as a composer and performer.
An active performer, Dr. Jeppesen maintains a rigorous schedule, averaging 100–150 gigs per year in clubs, theaters, and concert venues. Throughout his career, he has shared the stage with legendary artists, including Stevie Wonder, Dave Brubeck, Maria Schneider, Bobby McFerrin, Natalie Cole, and Ramsey Lewis. These experiences have not only enriched his performance skills but have also informed his teaching, providing students with insights into the demands and expectations of a professional music career.
Dr. Jeppesen holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Jazz Studies from the University of Southern California, where he also completed his Master of Music (MM) and Bachelor of Music (BM) degrees. He is excited to continue contributing to the jazz community, promoting creative collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and an inclusive environment for the next generation of musicians.
Scott is a D'Addario Woodwinds Performing Artist.