Born: July 8, 1968 Primary Instrument: Saxophone
Tenor Saxophonist Herb Harris was born in Washington D.C. July 8, 1968. He began his musical journey on clarinet at age 12. Upon entering high school, he switched to alto saxophone, a more “manly” instrument in the marching band, then switched to tenor saxophone at age 17.
His interest in jazz peaked when he heard a recording of John Coltrane's Giant Steps. Early on, he admired the sound and style of Dexter Gordon. Other influences include Sonny Rollins, Sonny Stitt and Charlie Parker.
Upon graduating high school, Harris spent several years of study at Florida A&M University. It was while attending the university that Harris met and jammed with Marcus Roberts. He eventually would play with Roberts, touring the States and Europe and recording with him on Deep in The Shed (RCA/Novus).
Harris also spent a short period with the Wynton Marsalis Septet with whom he toured the States, Europe, and South America and appeared on the soundtrack to Tune In Tommorow (Columbia). He was also featured in the group of saxophonists dubbed the “Tough Young Tenors” on the album Alone Together (Island/Antilles) which reached #5 on Billboard's Jazz Chart.
Harris was a member of the second edition of the Jazz Futures, which toured the States and Europe during the summer of 1992. Mr. Harris embarked on his first tour as a leader in the spring of 2002, with stops in Washington DC, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Rochester, Montclair (NJ), Los Angeles Santa Barbara, Eugene and New York.
“An extremely useful and well chosen collection of musical pieces...” —Radio Voice of Russia.
“The playing is great as is the group, which makes the album a joy to listen to... a marvelous album” —Bob Bennet, WSIE/Edwardsville, Il
“A beautiful album... in the tradition... Knocks many contemporaries into a cocked hat...” —David Sillars/BBC Radio Scotland.
“A good job for an independent project... plenty of good playing, tunes, and spirit!” —Larry Blood, Production Director, Jazzhound & host of “OUT FRONT, OUT BACK” KUSP/SANTA Cruz, CA
“Herb Harris won't be Unheard Any Longer...” —Al Hunter, Philadelphia Daily News
