Special Guest to Perform with SDSU Jazz Ensemble
Composer and pianist Matt Harris is known for his world-class artistry.
At 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7, the SDSU Jazz Ensemble will perform with renowned pianist and composer Matt Harris. The performances will take place in Smith Recital Hall.
“Matt Harris is one of the most versatile musicians I have ever worked with,” said Bill Yeager, director of Jazz Studies in SDSU’s College of Music and Dance. “His depth as a composer is world-class and incredibly diverse. His abilities as a piano player are equally impressive, having just returned from a tour of Europe with trumpet-great Bobby Shew, a past SDSU guest artist.”
In addition to performing and composing, Harris is the director of Jazz Studies at California State University, Northridge. Recently, Harris conducted the Minnesota All-State Jazz Band. He frequently hosts clinics and performances at the Idyllwild Arts Summer Jazz Camps, where he and Yeager first worked together.
“He is one of the finest educators I have ever encountered,” said Yeager.
When music comes to life
Harris started composing music during his college career.“I thought it was so cool to have other musicians play my music and have it come to life,” he said.
His favorite part of the process is coming up with the initial melody and song. Additionally, Harris looks forward to hearing how the band interprets his music.
“I like it when creative decisions have been made,” said Harris. “Sometimes it catches me by surprise, but I like to validate the creativity of others.”
Yeager describes Harris’ compositions as “an absolute joy to program, and our students love every one of them.”
