Chris Harris

Chris started on Trumpet and Trombone in high school. From 1988 to 1992, Chris served in the New Zealand Army Band, then took leave for three years to complete his Diploma in Jazz studies. Chris returned to the NZAB for a short time, before taking up a scholarship in the Unites States at the University Of The Arts (1996-98). After graduating, Chris began working on cruise ships as a trumpet player and Musical Director, and has worked on and off ships since then.

Chris moved to Nelson in 2013, launching the NYJO (Nelson Youth Jazz Orchestra) and has continued to perform various roles in different ensembles since then (Bass trombone in the NSO, Solo Cornet with the NSB Brass Band, 1st Trumpet in the Greenhill Orchestra, Lead trumpet in the Nelson Jazz Club Big band).

As a teacher of brass, Chris varies his lessons according to the student’s level of ability and their goals. Lessons can range from short, fun exploration for the young beginner, jazz improvisation and harmonic analysis for the contemporary enthusiast, to orchestral repertoire and audition preparation for the career brass player.