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Dr. Scott Jeppesen
Dr. Scott Jeppesen is an accomplished jazz educator, performer, and composer with over a decade of experience in higher education, known for integrating innovation and inclusivity into music education. As an Associate Professor of Music at Montana State University Billings, he has been instrumental in developing the university’s Commercial Music degree program, which has more than doubled the department's enrollment in recent years. Dr. Jeppesen is recognized for pioneering the use of AI and technology in his teaching, creating engaging, student-centered activities that prepare musicians for the demands of modern music careers. As an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), he has adopted Open Educational Resources (OER) to ensure accessible learning experiences for all students.
An active performer and Musical Director of the Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective, Dr. Jeppesen has led themed concerts that bring jazz history to life, drawing from his extensive experience as a saxophonist and arranger. His published works, including over 40 arrangements through ArrangeMe and albums such as "Wonders" and "El Guapo," reflect his versatility as a composer and commitment to artistic excellence. Dr. Jeppesen is passionate about fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking jazz studies program that blends tradition with innovation, preparing the next generation of musicians for impactful careers.
Overview and Highlights
As an educator, performer, and composer, I am dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment in jazz education. I believe in combining tradition with innovation, using technology and AI to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for dynamic careers in music. My work with the Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective, combined with my experience in developing MSUB's Commercial Music degree program, reflects my commitment to inspiring the next generation of musicians to explore their creative potential and to make meaningful contributions to the world of jazz.
Key Highlights
Over a decade of experience in jazz education, with a proven record of developing innovative and successful music programs in higher education.
Pioneered the integration of AI and technology into music education, collaborating with the Computer Science department to create innovative, student-centered activities that enhance learning, critical thinking, and engagement in jazz studies.
Advocated for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by adopting Open Educational Resources (OER) to reduce financial barriers, ensuring accessibility for first-generation, Native American, and low-income students.
Led the development of the Commercial Music degree program at Montana State University Billings, achieving over 100% growth in music major enrollment in seven years.
As the Musical Director of the Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective, expanded the ensemble's reach, growing audiences from 100 to over 600 per performance, and secured sponsorships up to $10,000 per show, while organizing themed concerts that engage audiences and educate students on jazz history and performance practices.
Published composer and arranger, with more than 40 works released through ArrangeMe and two critically acclaimed albums, "Wonders" and "El Guapo."
Active jazz performer with 100–150 gigs annually, including performances with the Billings Symphony Orchestra, Maria Schneider, and Stevie Wonder, bringing real-world experience to the classroom and demonstrating a deep commitment to jazz as a living art form.