Music has a way of finding us early in life and staying with us forever. For New Orleans musician and retired educator Edwin Harrison, the spark was lit before he could even read a music sheet.
“My grandfather used to walk around in the living room like he was playing the trombone and I wanted to play music ever since then. I must have been 2 or 3.”
That early passion set off an incredible lifelong musical journey through New Orleans schools. Edwin started on the trumpet at St. Peter Claver, moved on to the tuba at Andrew J. Bell Middle School, and became the drum major at Alcée Fortier High School. His talent and leadership took him straight to Southern University in Baton Rouge, where he earned the honor of drum major in his very first semester as a freshman!
Throughout his career, Mr. Harrison played the tuba as his main instrument while dedicating his life to shaping young minds as a music teacher across New Orleans public schools—including Joseph S. Clark, Gregory Junior High, L.B. Landry High School, and Walter L. Cohen High School.
Giving Back to the Community
When retirement came, sitting at home watching TV was not an option. Noticing an unused piano at the local public library, Mr. Harrison saw an opportunity to continue doing what he loves most: inspiring the next generation. After six months of determination and persistence to get the program approved, he launched free piano lessons for local youth.
“Do whatever you were put on Earth to do. I’m in my place—this isn’t work for me.”
Join the Musicians & Mentors Free Music Program
Through his Musicians and Mentors initiative, Edwin Harrison is keeping the rich musical legacy of New Orleans alive, one lesson at a time.
What: Free Piano Lessons
Where: Regional Public Library (Algiers)
Who: Open to kids and young learners eager to discover the joy of music!
Check with your local library branch for schedule updates, or follow Musicians and Mentors on Facebook.
Thank you, Mr. Harrison, for all the music you’ve given and built in New Orleans — and for sharing your memories with Confetti Park!
Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.