Dr. Scotty Horey: Connecting Mindfulness with Music

Emerging Alumni Awardee Scotty Horey (MM ‘09, DMA ‘13, music), an "immensely inquisitive and curious individual," is a professor of music at The Music School of Delaware and advocate for holistic awareness. His impact includes performances, clinics, and cultural exchange projects that foster unity and celebrate diversity, creating a powerful message of global interconnectedness.

What brought you to the University of Minnesota and how did you end up studying what you did?

I have always been passionate about creativity, especially while making music, and being physically active. After studying at the University of Maine, I was awarded an assistantship to study for a master's [degree] and a doctorate in music with Fernando Meza at UMN. This new relationship opened doors to contemporary classical music of Europe as well as the University’s courses in the learning sciences.

What do you do now? What energizes you about it?

I now serve as a teacher of drums and percussion at the Music School of Delaware while maintaining my creative work as a percussion solo artist around the USA, Latin America, and Europe. In recent years I have become passionate about my knowledge base in health, wellness, and mindfulness and its connection to music. 

What was something special about your home department?

At the School of Music, the constant pursuit and push towards excellence in the crafts of classical music, wind ensemble, jazz, marimba, and contemporary classical music built my foundation of high standards. Ferguson Hall was constantly alive with the sounds of dedicated musicians practicing, and curious musical thinkers discussing music research and music education.

One special memory of my time at UMN was visiting my primary mentors/professors Fernando Meza and James Dillon in their offices to discuss my progress and my passions. They never dismissed me or seemed too busy for me. They were very committed mentors and always took the extra step to support me, encourage my passion, and push me to improve and learn at the next level.

What are some ways your liberal arts education provided a foundation for what you do now?

As someone who was very passionate and motivated to develop my music performance and teaching, there was constant encouragement from faculty and graduate student peers about blending with other disciplines, such as composition, music theory, experimental music, music philosophy, and even health, wellness, and mindfulness. This interdisciplinary approach expanded me intellectually and helped carve the integrity of my now professional work.

What should current students understand about your profession if they are considering it for themselves?

As a music performer and teacher in our present economy, get ready for a lot of rejections, and don't be prepared to make a lot of money. This may sound dismal, but hold on to the passion and meaning you put into your work and that will keep you motivated. Practice a healthy lifestyle with diet, sleep, exercise, a spiritual practice, then throw yourself into new things to get experience! 

If you could go back to your time in college, what advice would you give to yourself at that age?

Honestly, it would be to take learning other life skills just as seriously as my musical and educational development. In particular, managing personal finances, and optimizing my diet and health habits. 

What has scholarship support meant to you?

I was fortunate to have a graduate assistantship as well as a Mann Fellowship during my time at UMN. I don't take these opportunities for granted, as many have had to study while working a job. In my opinion, undergraduate or graduate study should be a precious time in one's life where an ideal scenario is complete focus and immersion in your subject matter.

What's next? What are your personal/professional goals for the next five years?

I am satisfied and grateful to have the opportunity to share my knowledge and expertise in music, health, wellness, and mindfulness with my students locally, nationally, and abroad almost every day. In the next five years, I hope to expand my credentials to include a graduate certificate in health coaching from the University of Delaware. Additionally, in the next five years, I hope to write my first method book for percussion and continue my creative work as a solo artist.

This story was edited by Sally Adams, an undergraduate student in CLA.