Andrew Harrison

Acclaimed for his unique approach, virtuosic performances, and as a champion for both new and forgotten works, Indian-American Saxophonist Andrew Harrison has captured the hearts of audiences across the globe, while introducing the world to important voices, and showcasing the beauty and brilliance of the saxophone. Described as a “magician showing off his tricks" (Austin American Statesman), Andrew uses his fresh approach to the instrument to create a new environment for classical music, to reflect our lived experience and mixed culture, blending the known and the not yet explored. He has commissioned and premiered works by a diverse group of emerging and celebrated composers, including Jules Pegram, Giovanni Santos, Viet Cuong, Nina Shekhar, and Derrick Skye, among numerous others.

Andrew’s playing, which has been described as "spectacular" (LA Opus) with a sound that is "broad and rich" (The Instrumentalist), has garnered him numerous awards in prestigious competitions, including the U.S. “Pershing’s Own” Collegiate Concerto Competition, the LMC Frances Walton Competition, and most recently the American Prize in Music. He has been featured with several symphonic groups, including the Downey Symphony Orchestra, Music Academy of the West Orchestra, Cal Poly Pomona and La Sierra University Wind Ensembles, and the Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble.

Andrew is passionate about mentoring the next generation of artists to find their unique perspectives and to craft a professional journey that is singular and meaningful. Currently he serves on the faculties of Sonoma State University, Mt. San Antonio College, and Cerritos College, and previously served at the French Conservatory of Music and the Colburn School. He holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music, and a Masters degree from the University of Texas at Austin Butler School of Music, and his teachers have included legendary saxophonist Harvey Pittel, and LA Philharmonic Saxophonists Jim Rotter and Douglas Masek. For more information, visit his website at www.andrewsharrison.com