Jim Ott

Jim Ott was a legendary brass arranger of Drum & Bugle Corps. Born May 1, 1950, died July 8, 1980.

Some people leave this world too soon. Unfortunately, Jim Ott was one of those people. However, Ott left his impression on the drum and bugle corps activity forever. He came from a "drum corps" family and was involved with the Stockton Police drum corps in 1964 at an early age. By 1968, Self-taught, Jim was arranging music for the Stockton Commodores Drum & Bugle Corps as well as instructing their brass line by the age of 17. He continued his work with the corps until 1973 and helped them to top-12 status.

Jim went on to arrange for over 30 Drum and Bugle Corps and instructed, in particular the National Champions Blue Devils from Concord, CA. and Spirit Of Atlanta of Atlanta GA. It was during these years that he arranged some of his best work, most notably “Georgia” ,“Chase the Clouds Away”,” and "Let It Be Me”. Being called the “Jim Ott Sound”.

Not only was Jim Ott a gifted arranger, but also a devoted teacher. It is said that Jim Ott could get more out of a 14-year-old who couldn’t read music than most instructors could get out of a seasoned musician. Jim loved his “kids” and the feeling was reciprocated.

Tragically, at age 30 Jim died in an automobile accident on July 8, 1980 while on tour with Spirit Of Atlanta. His influence is still present in the brass arrangements of today, but many still long to hear the “Jim Ott sound.” Jim Ott’s legacy since has continued for over 35years with a annual $3000 dollar scholarships to college students who major’s in the performing arts and the trophy award “The Jim Ott High Brass” award given to the best brass hornline at the Drum Corps International Championships held every year in August.

On July 19, 1980 at Concord, CA "Precision West 80" Jerry Seawright presented a tribute in memory of Jim Ott along with 200 horn players & color guards, member of the Blue Devils, the Sacramento Freelancers Drum & Bugle Corps, Santa Clara Vanguard and former members of the Stockton Commodores Drum & Bugle Corps, playing the Naval Hymn.

Jim was inducted into the Drum Corps International (DCI) Hall Of Fame in 1995, posthumous.