Scott Cowan

Scott Cowan is a Professor of Jazz and Chair of the Jazz Studies Area at Western Michigan University’s Irving S. Gilmore School of Music. He holds a D.M.A. from the University of Miami and degrees from New England Conservatory. His expertise spans jazz performance, composition, and education. Cowan has performed internationally with renowned artists and released acclaimed albums like Jack’s Place and Turkish Delight. He is a Fulbright Scholar (2013) and recipient of teaching awards from WMU’s College of Fine Arts. His work includes compositions premiered at Lincoln Center and Jazz Education Network Conventions.

• Roles: Director of WMU Jazz Orchestra, clinician at universities globally, and Conn-Selmer Artist/Educator.
• Research: Focuses on jazz pedagogy, ensemble arrangement, and original composition.

Cowan’s articles appear in International Trumpet Guild Journal and JAZZed Magazine. His compositions blend traditional and modern jazz forms, often exploring cultural fusion themes. Grants from WMU supported projects like Jack’s Place.

• Awards: Boston Jazz Society Award, Teaching Excellence Recognition, and Fulbright Scholarship.

He advises student ensembles and teaches courses in jazz theory, improvisation, and brass performance. Cowan’s career bridges artistic innovation with educational leadership, shaping future generations of musicians through mentorship and curriculum development.