ABOUT
What do you love about music?
I love that music is a pursuit that never ends. I love getting my students hooked on the same enthusiasm I have for the internal journey of becoming a better musician. It’s about getting engaged with the whole process and not just individual goals — because you are never “done” with music. There’s always more to learn and more ways to grow, and being comfortable with that realization is really a metaphor for life. That’s the big picture! But along the way, you get to play music you enjoy and express yourself and achieve the sense of accomplishment that results as you slowly evolve and improve.
Who is your favorite artist?
It’s a tie between Keith Jarrett and Frank Zappa.
What are your top five desert-island albums?
Symphony No. 4 — Charles Ives
The Köln Concert — Keith Jarrett
The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady — Charles Mingus
Rain Dogs — Tom Waits
Anything of Thelonious Monk’s
Do you play in a band or currently perform?
Although I’ve played in many bands in the past, I currently find doing solo instrumental gigs to be the most enjoyable.
PHOTOS
BIOGRAPHY
Emil Harris brings proficient playing experience and a passion to teaching piano at the Academy. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, he began piano lessons at age eight, only to be bitten by the rock-guitar bug in high school. He entered the University of Tennessee’s jazz program as a guitarist but returned to piano, studying with Grammy-nominated jazz pianist and former Art Blakey sideman Donald Brown.
After receiving a bachelor’s degree in music, Emil played professionally in Knoxville and continued performing with various bands after moving to Columbia City in 2009. He enjoys hiking, biking, and spending time with his son Devin and his wife Stacy.
Emil first discovered his love for teaching when he became an instructor at a nonprofit organization called Joy of Music School. Today, he brings his excitement for education to every lesson at the Academy, allowing you to learn a wealth of musical knowledge.