Scarbrough

Russell Scarbrough (b. 1972) is a composer, arranger, and trombonist. He studied composition with Hank Levy at Towson State University, and Bill Dobbins at the Eastman School of Music. He received his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Eastman in 2008.As a composer, Scarbrough’s compelling, visceral works reflect a diverse array of musical resources, drawing equal parts from the jazz tradition and contemporary classical music. At times his music is unabashedly melodic, at others, filled with unpredictable rhythmic energy, but always full of rich contrasts and an avoidance of cliché. Recognition for his work has been received through awards such as the Raymond and Maxine Schirmer Prize in Jazz Composition and the ASCAP Plus Award. He has fulfilled dozens of commissions for large and small ensembles, in both jazz and classical idioms, and his music has been heard at Carnegie Hall and on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building, at the National Flute Convention and International Trombone Festival, and at numerous regional music conferences and jazz festivals.