Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

March 23, 1973 in Albany, NY

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Stefon Harris is a renowned jazz vibraphonist, composer, and educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on March 23, 1973, in Albany, New York, Harris grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later switched to the vibraphone, which became his primary instrument. Harris attended the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with legendary jazz vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson. He graduated in 1995 with a Bachelor of Music degree in classical percussion. During his time at the Manhattan School of Music, Harris also studied with jazz pianist Kenny Barron and saxophonist Steve Wilson. After graduating, Harris quickly established himself as a rising star in the jazz world. He joined the band of pianist and composer Wynton Marsalis in 1997 and toured with him for several years. Harris also released his debut album, "A Cloud of Red Dust," in 1998, which received critical acclaim and established him as a leading vibraphonist. Over the years, Harris has collaborated with many other jazz greats, including Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson, and Cassandra Wilson. He has also released several more albums, including "Blackout" (2004), which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Album. In addition to his work as a performer, Harris is also a dedicated educator. He has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, and the University of Nevada, Reno. He has also conducted masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing his knowledge and passion for jazz with aspiring musicians. Harris has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1999, he was named Best Mallet Player by the Jazz Journalists Association. He has also been recognized by DownBeat magazine, which named him Best Vibraphonist in its Critics Poll for several years in a row. One of Harris's most notable performances was his appearance at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was chosen to perform the national anthem at the opening ceremony, which was watched by millions of people around the world. Harris's performance was widely praised for its beauty and emotional power. Another highlight of Harris's career was his collaboration with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. In 2011, he was invited to perform with the society's jazz ensemble, which included some of the world's most renowned classical musicians. The performance was a groundbreaking fusion of jazz and classical music, and it received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. In addition to his work as a performer and educator, Harris is also a composer. He has written several pieces for jazz ensembles, including "The Grand Unification Theory," which was commissioned by the Monterey Jazz Festival in 2003. The piece was later recorded by Harris and his band, Blackout, and released on their album of the same name. Overall, Stefon Harris is a true master of his craft, a virtuoso vibraphonist who has pushed the boundaries of jazz and classical music. His performances are marked by their technical brilliance, emotional depth, and sheer joyfulness. He is a true ambassador for jazz, and his contributions to the genre will be felt for generations to come.

More....