VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) – A musician represents South Georgia in an international group, Count Basie’s Orchestra.

Professor and Head of the Music Department at Valdosta State University (VSU), Isrea Butler’s favorite instrument is the trombone.

In addition to joining the Marines as a musician, he taught and led various music departments at different universities.

Butler has performed in many of the best jazz ensembles and Broadway productions in New York City.

He has also worked with several of the country’s largest jazz orchestras, such as Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington.

And now he has an official seat with the Count Basie Orchestra.

One of the most prominent jazz groups, their concerts continue to sell out more than 85 years later.

“I think it’s important to show the students that you can actually do what they hope to someday do, be professional musicians. So I always tried to maintain my skills, improve myself and be able to bring that relevance to my teachings, ”said Butler.

Butler is delighted to represent Valdosta with the Count Basie Orchestra and to be able to continue to share new experiences and knowledge with VSU students.

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