Scotty Barnhart, associate professor of jazz trumpet at the Florida State University College of Music and director of the Count Basie Orchestra, has won this year’s Grammy for “Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album” for Count Basie Orchestra’s “Basie Swings The Blues” album. The award is Barnhart’s first as director of the Count Basie Orchestra, and third in his career.
“Professor Barnhart’s impeccable work leading the Count Basie Orchestra continues to resonate across the national music landscape, as evidenced by his most recent Grammy award win,” said Todd Queen, dean of the Florida State University College of Music. “Scotty is an integral part of the world-class jazz faculty here at FSU, and they continue to shine on the national stage, making this a top destination for any student wanting to study jazz.”
Barnhart joined the Count Basie Orchestra in 1993 as a featured trumpet soloist, and twenty years later he was appointed director of the organization. In 2008, Barnhart was signed to Unity Music and released his debut album, Say It Plain. Alongside his career in the music industry, Barnhart has taught at Florida State University since 2003. In 2005, he authored The World of Jazz Trumpet – A Comprehensive History and Practical Philosophy. He continues to teach while directing the Count Basie Orchestra and touring with the group for three months every year.
“I’m just fortunate to be at Florida State,” he said. “I love doing it, and I’ll be there until I can’t play or walk or talk anymore. This is not work to me. This is what my passion in life is.”
Barnhart graduated from historically Black Florida A&M University with a degree in music education.
