Three members of the University of New Orleans music department faculty took top honors at the “Best of the Beat” awards presented by OffBeat magazine on January 28 at Generations Hall.
Matt Perrine, an adjunct professor in jazz studies, won Best Tuba/ Sousaphonist. Perrine is a sousaphonist and bassist who directs the UNO New Orleans Music ensemble. He leads his own band, Sunflower City, and regularly contributes to a number of other groups.
Cindy Scott, an adjunct professor in jazz studies, won Best Contemporary Jazz Album for “Let the Devil Take Tomorrow.” Scott is a jazz vocalist who received her Master of Music degree in 2007 from UNO, where she teaches the UNO Jazz Voices ensemble. “Let the Devil Take Tomorrow” was produced by Brian Seeger, UNO assistant professor of jazz studies, and UNO jazz studies professor Ed Petersen played tenor saxophone on the project. To hear tracks from her award-winning album, visit www.cindyscott.us.
Irvin Mayfield, professor of professional practice and the director of the UNO Jazz Institute, was named Best Contemporary Jazz Artist. The internationally-recognized jazz trumpeter is a versatile bandleader, composer, arranger and recording artist as well as a passionate spokesman for the rich history of New Orleans jazz.
The voting for the “Best of the Beat” awards is done online by the public. According to OffBeat magazine, the 2011 awards enjoyed the highest voter turnout in history. To view a full list of the winners visit http://www.offbeat.com/2011/01/29/best-of-the-beat-2010-music-award-winners/.