Harris Playfair

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Harris Playfair, a versatile and accomplished pianist, hails from the Shetland Islands of Scotland, where his musical journey began at a young age. Influenced by the rich cultural heritage of his home, he was introduced to the worlds of jazz and folk by the legendary Shetland musician Peerie Willie Johnson, whose mentorship laid the foundation for Harris's broad musical vocabulary.

His virtuosic ability was further refined during his time at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, where he studied under the esteemed Derek Wyndham. Wyndham, renowned for having tutored many world-class classical pianists, instilled in Harris a profound understanding of musicality that transcends genres.

Over the years, Harris has performed with some of the finest folk musicians in Scotland, becoming one of the most respected and esteemed pianists. He also performs with his own jazz trio, showcasing his diverse talents as both a performer and a composer. His collaborations with jazz guitarist Joe Robson have resulted in a dynamic fusion of improvisation and melodic invention, cementing Harris's reputation as an innovative and forward-thinking musician.

Joe Robson: Home

by Neil Duggan
January 12, 2025

Many artists draw inspiration from their homeland's folk traditions, which are often reflected in their compositions and playing style. This fusion is particularly evident in Scottish jazz, where prominent performers like Fergus McCreadie, Norman Willmore and Stephen Henderson incorporate strong folk elements. Guitarist Joe Robson advances this blend in his ambitious project Home, achieving a complete marriage of both genres across his ten compositions that make up the album. Supporting his vision are several similarly inspired Scottish musicians. ...