Biography

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 with “electric performances of stunning expression (Classical Sonoma)”, 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 distinctive style 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, Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble, with upcoming performances with the Chandler Symphony, Orchestra Santa Monica, the Sonoma County Philharmonic, and the Santa Rosa Symphony. 

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 as the Professor of Classical Saxophone at Sonoma State University, and previously served at Mt. San Antonio College, Cerritos College, 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. He is an endorsing artist of Eastman Saxophones and Key Leaves Saxophone Accessories. For more information, visit his website at www.andrewsharrison.com