At just 19 years old, Bienen sophomore and jazz pianist Brandon Harper has already made a remarkable impact on the Chicago music scene. From performing at renowned venues to earning national accolades, Harper's passion for self-expression through music has propelled him to new heights.

Unlocking the Rhythm of Success: Brandon Harper's Captivating Rise

Conquering Chicago's Jazz Stages

This summer, Harper's talents were on full display as he took the stage at iconic Chicago jazz venues like Ravinia Steans Music Institute, Andy's Jazz Club, and the Jazz Showcase. These hallowed halls have hosted jazz legends from Count Basie to Chick Corea, and Harper's performances alongside Chicago jazz drummer Isaiah Spencer were a testament to his growing mastery. Despite the initial "nerve-wracking" experience, Harper quickly found his groove, immersing himself in the music and connecting with the audience. "You just realize that you're just playing for the music," he reflects. "You're here for a reason, and playing for the band is what matters the most."

Cultivating a Unique Sound: Harper's Percussive Approach

Harper's musical journey has been marked by a unique blend of influences, from his early days of drumming in "Rock Band" to his classical percussion training in the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras. This diverse background has imbued his piano playing with a distinct percussive quality, a sound that has been described as "unique and organic." As he transitioned from drums to piano, Harper found that the harmony and melody of the instrument allowed him to develop his own distinct voice. "The more you do it the more of an identity it becomes," he explains, "and the more new things you learn about yourself."

Embracing the Jazz Tradition

Harper's love for jazz was not an immediate revelation, but rather a gradual evolution. Inspired by the fusion sounds of Steely Dan, he began delving into the rich history and legends of the genre, immersing himself in the music and honing his skills through self-motivated practice. Unlike many of his peers, Harper is largely self-taught, a fact that "baffles" him, as he marvels at his ability to progress without formal instruction. This self-directed approach has allowed Harper to develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the jazz tradition, which he now brings to the stage with a passion and authenticity that captivates audiences.

Thriving in the Bienen Jazz Community

Despite being encouraged to explore other institutions known for their jazz programs, Harper chose to stay close to home and join the Bienen School of Music's jazz department. Here, he has become an integral part of the close-knit community, forging connections with fellow students like Bienen and Weinberg freshman Ethan Kasparian Weisman. "He has a presence in the national youth jazz community in a way that not a lot of people do," Kasparian Weisman observes, highlighting Harper's impressive accolades, which include being a YoungArts winner in jazz piano, attending Lincoln Center's Summer Jazz Academy, and serving as a National Youth Orchestra alternate for jazz piano.

A Lifelong Passion for Self-Expression

For Harper, music has always been a means of self-expression, a way to explore and understand himself. From his early days of drumming to his current mastery of the piano, the instrument has been a constant companion, a tool for him to channel his emotions and creativity. "The more you do it the more of an identity it becomes," he reflects, "and the more new things you learn about yourself." As he continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of his craft, Harper's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of music and the pursuit of one's passions.