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Joe Harris

Saxophonist - Teacher

About Me

Native of Wilmington, Delaware, I started playing the Clarinet when I was in the 4th. grade and studied with violinist and teacher Estele Frankle. I started playing the Alto Saxophone in the 7th grade at the request of my classmate Ernie Watts, and began my jazz improvisation studies with Boysie Lowery , noted jazz teacher of Clifford Brown , Len Winchester, Ernie Watts, Rick Rossi, Al Cato, Gerald Chavis, to name a few.

While attending Bayard Jr. High school, I began recording with Teddy and The Continentals, The Teen Kings, Joey and The Challengers and other local and Philadelphia based vocal and instrumental groups. It was at this time that I found my passion - JAZZ

I attended the Wilmington High School and switched to the Tenor Saxophone and studied Music Harmony and Theory with Harry Andrews and attended summer sessions at the Berklee College of Music. I also studied and had the pleasure to play with Pianist Norris Austin and Bassist Al Cato.

In the early 1970s , I joined the commercially successful band , Turning Point. Based out of New York, Turning Point toured the United States for 7 years and gave me most of my solo experience.

Returning to Wilmington, Delaware I began studying with guitarist Steve Giordano and pianist Ron Thomas and played Atlantic City, Clubs and Tri State Jazz Concerts. It was at this time that I found my other Passion - TEACHING

My Jazz Story

I love jazz because... I was first exposed to jazz... I met Joe Henderson The Newport Jazz Festival The first jazz record I bought was... My advice to new listeners... Or whatever else you have in mind.