Scott Simpson
Drummer Scott Simpson had wonderful band directors and teachers starting in 5th grade with Robert Ellege, Gene Trowbridge, and Ed Melichar in Edina Schools followed by Elliott Fine who taught him all the basic rhythms and styles for set drumming. At the U of M, Dr. Frank Bencriscutto gave him the experience of touring Russia in 1969 followed by a chance to play with Clark Terry. Scott worked with Dick Whitbeck for 7 years at the Guthrie Theater, backed Gladys Knight and the Pips at the Carlton, and is indebted to Jack Gillespie (who provided many years of working with show groups, club bands, big bands, and small groups – Jimmy Martin among them). His parents made this all possible by paying for his drum lessons and coming to his school concerts.