About

John Marvin Scott is a musicology scholar, music educator, guitarist, and improvising musician, currently residing on the unceded and ancestral territory of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh speaking peoples, the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. John is actively pursuing his Masters of Arts in Ethnomusicology at the University of British Columbia, under the direction of Dr. Michael Tenzer and Dr. Nathan Hesselink.

Originally from Treaty 6 Territory, the traditional lands of the Cree, Nakoda, Saulteaux, Dene, and Métis peoples, John is now working alongside local musicians across Western Canada, teaching and performing musical styles from around the globe. Being an active composer and improviser, John creates musical experiences through various groups and solo performances.

John is an expert in short-neck plucked chordophones with over 15 years of experience in various stringed and fretted instruments, including guitar, ukulele, and bass guitar. He is academically trained in European classical guitar and jazz guitar and has experience in global popular music, West African music, Indian classical music, and East Asian music.

As a composer, John creates music under multiple aliases and performs with local musicians and groups across Western Canada. His compositional style is a true melting pot, blending his 2000s punk and emo roots with influences from various global genres. His debut double LP titled 'The Capstone' reflects the dichotomy of musical freedom, featuring two ensembles: one performing his compositions and the other engaging in spontaneous improvisations. John's latest EP 'Songs for Friends' draws inspiration from the guitarists who have influenced him, emphasizing the value of learning from peers and friends.

John’s passion for improvised music drives his musical practice. He actively performs in digital spaces such as Decentraland, Twitch, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook, creating a unique blend of improvised art performed solo on electric guitar.

Educated by some of Canada’s top musicians, John has studied under Canadian jazz guitar legend Bill Coon and Yamaha artist Karen Gustafson. He has also trained with various other musicians and educators, including Jeremy Doody in Red Deer, Jim Head in Edmonton, Brad Turner, Jared Burrows, Kofi J.S. Gbolonyo, Grace McNab, Bradshaw Pack, Ron Samworth, and others at Capilano University in North Vancouver.