19

Dr. Nelson Harrison

Male

Pittsburgh, PA

United States

Profile Information:

Favorite website: http://jazzhoprevolution.com
Favorite blog: http://www.novacopia.org
Pittsburgh Connection: Born raised and embedded in Pittsburgh. Crescent Elementary, Baxter Jr. High, Westinghouse High and University of Pittsburgh.
Favorite Pittsburgh musicians/performers: Pittsburgh musicians are the best in the world. There are too many to name especially since I have played here for 50+ years. I have had the honor and privilege of playing with a few of the legends of Pittsburgh, e.g., Billy Eckstine, Earl "Fatha" Hines, Kenny Clarke, Art Blakey, Stanley Turrentine, Sam Johnson, Joe Harris, J.C. Moses, Dakota Staton, Lena Horne, Grover Mitchell and Walt Harper.. My mentoring came from Warren Watson, Joe Westray, Carl Arter, Eddie "Rabbit" Barnes, Sam Hurt, Harold & Jerry Betters, Jerry Elliot, Bobby Jones, Art Nance, Cecil Brooks II, Bobby Boswell and Ahmad Jamal. My teachers were Fanetta Gordon, Carl McVicker, Sr. and Matty Shiner. My favorite pianist of all is Ahmad Jamal. If I went further to include my peer group down through the young lions of today I would run out of space.
Favorite Jazz Radio or media station: WZUM, WYEP (blues), WRCT
Favorite Pittsburgh Jazz Venue: The Crawford Grill #2 is my favorite stage to play in the entire world. There was also the Midway Lounge, the Hurricane, the Diplomat, the Ebony Lounge, the Crescendo, the Rendevous, the Florentine, the Loendi Club, the Local #471 Musicians' Club in S'Liberty, Horseley's, the Loft, Ramseys II, the Pirate Inn, the Copa, the Encore I & II, the Pink Cloud, the Pitt Pot, the Black Magic, the Tiger's Tail, the Zebra Room, etc. to bring back a few memories of the erstwhile clubs.
About Me:: Ph. D. in clinical psychology, educator, composer, archivist, lyricist, arranger, ASCAP, playwright, speaker, photographer; veteran trombonist of the Count Basie Orchestra featuring Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughan, Helen Humes, Joe Turner, Eddie Vinson, Dennis Rowland (‘78-80 incl. Japan tour); played with Dionne Warwicke, The Supremesm The Spinners, Eddie Kendricks, and The Temptations (’64), Joe Westray, Brooke Benton, Earl Grant, Mary Wells (1962 – 72); Sonny and the Premiers (1963 – 67); Walt Harper (1967-70); Brook Benton, Earl Grant, Chuck Jackson, Gene Ludwig, James Brown (’67-68); Nathan Davis (1970-75); Lena Horne and Tony Bennett (‘74), Don Byas, Billy Eckstine and Earl "Fatha" Hines (1975), Marva Josie, Martha Reeves, Barry White ('76), Kenny Clarke (‘79), Liberace (’77), Nancy Wilson and Melba Moore (’78), J.C. Heard, Charlie Gabriel, Marcus Belgrave ('78), Sammy Davis, Jr. and Aretha Franklin (’79 & 2015), Perry Como and Johnny Mathis (‘80), Bobby Vinton (’81), Ginger Rogers, Jerry Butler, Teddy Pendergrass, George Gobel, Red Skelton, the Smothers Brothers, Joan Rivers, Lola Falana, Donna Summer, Engelbert Humperdinck and Glenn Campbell (’82), Jay McShann (‘87), Slide Hampton (‘86), Nelson Riddle (’84) Al Cohn, Marvin Hamlisch (’97) and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band in New Orleans (’98) Irma Thomas, also Jimmy Owens, Joe Lastie, Gerald French, John Clayton, Bobby Plater, Freddie Green, Cleveland Eaton, Gerald Wilson, Stanley Turrentine, Tommy Turrentine, Dr. David Baker, Butch Miles, Duffy Jackson, Karlton Hester, Arnett Cobb, Pauly Cohen, Ramon Morris, Geri Allen, Jothan Callins, Donald Byrd, Freddie Redd, Larry Ridley, Jack McDuff, J.C. Moses, Nathan East, Andy Bey ('77), Nathan Davis ('70-'75) to name only a few; inventor of the "Trombetto," a compact brass instrument with four valves that plays a chromatic range of six octaves with a trombone mouthpiece; played at festivals in New Orleans, London, Edinburg, Sacramento, New York City, Seattle; clinics and lectures in Santa Cruz and San Jose, CA, Quebec City and Montreal, Canada, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Cleveland, New York and Toronto; scores written to movies by Georg Sanford Brown and John Russo and plays by Richard Wright, August Wilson and Rob Penny; lyricist of 125 bop standards; featured horn soloist avec vocalese with the Pittsburgh Connection Big Band at the 2007 IAJE Convention in NYC; nationally recognized expert on Pittsburgh jazz history.

Currently active in Pittsburgh with The Blues Orphans, Wee Jams, Studio-E Band, George Gee Orchestra, the Boilermaker Jazz Band and my own The World According to Bop, Jazz ‘N Jive, Dr. Jazz and the Salty Dawgs, Blue to the Bone, and Nelson Harrison and Associates and Ronnie Jones and Jazz Conversations.

Discography: Live at the Attic (1969) with the Walt Harper Quintet (Birmingham Label); Makatuka (1970) (Segue Label) and Suite for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1971) (Tomorrow International Label) with Nathan Davis; Kansas City Shout (1980) with the Count Basie Orchestra (Pablo Label); On A Coconut Island( 1993), Don't Give Up the Ship (1995), Burgundy Street Blues (1996) and Honky Tonk Town (1997) with the Boilermaker Jazz Band (Biograph Label); Tuesday Night at James Street (2002) with the RH Factor, Don’t Give Up (2003) with the Roger Humphries Big Band; Moonlit River (2003) songs by Fred Moolten, (MGO Media Label); 21st-Century Musicism (2005) compositions by Karlton E. Hester (Hesteria Records); If I Can’t Dance, It’s Not My Revolution (2006) Anne Feeney; Schism ‘n Blues (2005) & Root Rot (2007) with the Blues Orphans (Staggerin’ Fitz Label) which are the first commercial recordings of the trombetto, Not from Concentrate (2007) Genie Walker & Harmonique (Hip Tip Label).

He is is cited in the Marquis publication Who’s Who in the East (1979, The Jazz Men by Larry Tye, Mariner Books (2024)and August Wilson: A Life by Patti Hartigan, Simon & Schuster (2023); received the Renaissance Too Magazine Professional Men in Jazz Award (1989) and the East Liberty Hall of Fame (1991), the Westinghouse High School Hall of Fame (1995), Evolution of Jazz: Bridging the Gap Mentors Award (2006), the Walt Harper All That Jazz Award (2008), the Legacy Arts Project Keepers of the Flame Award (2008), the Build the Hill Award (2008) and the MCG Jazz Pittsburgh Legends of Jazz Award (2008), African American Council on the Arts Rob Penny Lifetime Achievement Award (2009), Jazz Journalists Association (JJA) Jazz Heroes Award (2015).

Blogs:
http://www.jjajazzawards.org/p/blog-page.html
http://oldmonmusic.blogspot.com/2009/12/dr-nelson-harrison.html
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cres-oneal/2010/06/16/dr-nelson-harrison
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/theremix/2009/05/30/dr-nelson-harrison...
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/musicwoman/2008/10/01/metaphysics-of-m...
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/soulutionsradio/2009/07/06/dr-nelson-h...
Website:: http://www.pittsburghartistregistry.org/drjazz
Artist or Fan: artist, fan, industry professional, student, media

Comment Wall:

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Dr. Nelson Harrison

Would you be interested in celebrating some of the CAPA High milestones and alumni on the network. As its visionary founder, I think you could add an important awareness to the general understanding, e.g., I remember in the early years parents were concerned whether their children would get adequate academics at CAPA, now CAPA has risen to the top rung of academic excellence in the entire city. That's no accident and it would be nice to hear from you and invite other testimony from among the general membership. What do you think?

May 29, 2008
Eli Byrne

Sure, Nelson, here's a link to the newspaper:

Nelson Harrison's review in Voices of Dr. Chris Byrne's new CD Bootleg Byrne

May 30, 2008
Lilly Abreu

It was my pleasure to jam with you to my friend. You're da maaannnnnn!!!! :-)

May 31, 2008
Diva JC

Nelson,
I guess I'm not as smart as you think I am. How do I add music to your network?
Diva JC

Jun 2, 2008
Carol Segal Rein

I appreciate that you share your knowledge of the local talent. Can't wait to hear these performers. I am, relatively, a new fan and I am just now exploring.
I do love those sultry female singers but I'm interested, too, to hear what the men have to offer.
I enjoy when I can have a "Roberta Flack moment." Its special, too, to understand somebody else's life. So, bring on those male vocalists!

Jun 2, 2008
Whitney A. Jackman

Thank you, Nelson. I will definitely check out the site more. Also, I know my profile is a little shabby, still. I will add more, though. It was great playing with you, and I'll see you around.

Jun 4, 2008
Maryellen Hayden

Doc, I know a lot of the people in the pictures, but not everyone. Younger people will get on here and know very few. Is there any way you can get captions under them, with names, and maybe a quick note or two, so we can leaqrn what was happening or what year, etc? They are, after all, history....

Maryellen

Jun 5, 2008
Ahveekhy

Doc, Thanks for turning me on to jazzburgher on ning. I'm looking forward to kickin' it with you on the PCTV21 show in the near future. Peace Ahveekhy

Jun 7, 2008
Dan Wasson

Nelson, do you know the date of the picture "REGGIE WATKINS JAMS AT THE CRAWFORD GRILL #2"? It didn't ring a bell, hope somebody else doesn't look this messed up...thx

Jun 10, 2008
Frank Cohen

wow yeah that was a few years back, I was a little kid. I'd love to see those photos. Let me know when you're playing a show or another session and i'll stop by. It's always fun playing with you.

Jun 10, 2008
sunny dee

hey PAPA u r d spirit behind d music, 1-luv

Jun 11, 2008
Mike DiRubbo

Hey Nelson,

I miss coming out to Pittsburgh. There is such a great vibe there and a rich musical heritage. I'm happy I had a chance to play at some of the clubs that are now gone. I'm sad to hear that Tucker is not doing well, he's a great cat. I hope to get out there soon. Thanks for keeping the music alive.

-Mike D

Jun 16, 2008
Frank B. Greenlee

Chuck Jackson used to perform at "Chappy's" on Pennsylvania Ave. on the Northside with the likes of Willie Love, Sonny Stanton, "Shot Gun" and many more. I understand he played at John Christian's Golf Classic. We have had many great performers that aren't recalled such as; Chuck Edwards, James "Blood" Ulmer and Van Harris to name a few. Yes I remember.....

Jun 25, 2008
The Tuesday Night Big Band

Hi Nelson,

Thanks for the welcome to the Jazz Network!

Deb Weible - Tuesday Night Big Band

Jun 30, 2008
Angela Abadilla

Awwww..thank you so much Nelson. You have always been the most inspirational person/musician/friend. I always enjoy and look forward to our conversations and I relish the moments where you share your stories about Pittsburgh's rich Jazz History. You paint such a vivid picture for me with your words and I continue to be such a lucky woman to know you. Thank you again for putting together this fantastic and informative site.

Jul 3, 2008
Benjy Myaz

Greetings Nelson Harrison
Tanx 4 da invite..
Respect 4 da add..
One Blessed Love
Benjy Myaz

Jul 7, 2008
Scott Whitfield

Ditto, and thanks for the invite!
SW

Jul 7, 2008
derrick schippers

thanks Nelson. Certainly I feel muh closer to Pittsburg who knows maybe in the near future I'll be there with you guys.

Jul 7, 2008
Khepera

Nelson -

Hetepu bro! Yes, eye iz finally in de house... You made sure this time, sending it to ALL my email addresses.... I was like, damn Doc! But eye'z heah now, so....

Jul 7, 2008
Sparky Koerner

Thanks Nelson. I am making a trip to Pgh July 30 through Aug 5 and hope that there will be some jazz happening in the city to check out. Is this the best source to find out what is happening on the jazz scene?
Until later Sparky

Jul 9, 2008
Walt Szymanski

Hi Nelson
Thanks for the warm welcome and I too look forward to hitting with you again. I think I'll be in Pittsburgh sometime in September.
Peace
Walt

Jul 9, 2008
Jimmy Sapienza

Hi Nelson,

Cyber space is so cool. The universe at our finger tips...

Thanks for hipping me to this sight.

Jimmy

Jul 9, 2008
Didier EUZET Composer

Thanks so much for friendship Nelson... I appreciate to much your comments.
Have fun...
Didier

Jul 10, 2008
Kevin McManus

Hey Nelson,

Thanks a lot. We'll have to get together some time so that you can show me how it works. Take care - KM

Jul 12, 2008
Cheike Diongue

Thank you AND HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!!!!!

Jul 13, 2008
Gene Ludwig

It was a great day today, the award means a lot to me. I enjoyed sharing the stage with you too. This is a wonderful forum for sharing memories and information. Thanks Nelson!

Jul 13, 2008
Jeff Stearn

Thanks for the welcome. I'm originally from Penn Hills area and have been living near Baltimore since 1978. Last jazz venue I played in the 'Burgh was the Continental Night Club in Braddock back in '71, right before leaving for the Navy. Will let you know when my bass and I will be in the 'Burgh; would love seeing Gene Ludwig live again.

Jul 14, 2008
Dr. Nelson Harrison

We are so glad to have another native son join us from afar. Gene plays somewhere here every week. Add him as a friend and then you can communicate directly with each other. That's what we are about.

Jul 14, 2008
Keith A. Dames

Hey Nelson...thanks for the welcome...keep on sliding that bone aiight...its one of my favorite instruments the Trombone & French Horn...love the regalness of the sound...keep on Swinging...

Jul 15, 2008
Terra Merkey

hey Nelson - where's Sunny? :)

Jul 15, 2008
Dr. Nelson Harrison

Thanks for b eing there to enjoy it. Hope to see you there often.

Jul 16, 2008
Johane Exen

Hie Nelson,

thanks for your comment.
Really nice songs here!!! i'ts nice to meet you, and I hope to meet Pittsburgh one day!!!

cheers,

Céline

Jul 18, 2008
Phat Man Dee

Ok man, I am hip to this network now.... thanks for setting it up, you are right, it is waaaaay cooler than that spammy old myspace...... nice chilling with you at Shadow last night, lets do that Pgh Jazz Festival , it would make the world a happier place.

Jul 19, 2008
janice lee

Thank you and have a peaceful Sunday!

Jul 20, 2008
Kenny Clarke

Yes sir I sure do he was one of my and my drummers favorite drummers so he calls me Klook II LOL even the great b3er joey defrancesco wrote to me about that lol
Have a blessed day!
Kenny

Jul 21, 2008
Elizabeth "Betty" Asche Douglas

Thanks Nelson, this site is a great treasure! Visitors from out of town are regularly astonished that the jazz scene here remains so rich and varied, and you have played a considerable role in fostering it. Keep the faith!

Jul 21, 2008
Paul Girdany

Hi Nelson: Really dug hearing you last Monday at the Shadow Lounge and last night with Roger Humphries at the Rhythm House. Thanks for all you do for Jazz in the Burgh and for creating this site and turning me on to it.
Paul Girdany

Jul 21, 2008
Lisa M. Mathews

Thanks Nelson...yes they are hand sculpted original pieces made of polymer clay.

Jul 21, 2008
John R. Lamkin, II

Hhey Nelson,
I wish tou had told me sooner about the Jam Session today. Next time give me at least a weeks notice - please!

Jul 21, 2008
John R. Lamkin, II

Really, jam sessions at least 4x's a week? Wow, that's not happening here. I'm going to have to get up there before school starts back and play some with you guys. Let me know what day is a good time to come up.

John

Jul 22, 2008
Dr. Nelson Harrison

We have major sessions on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and some Fridays and Saturdays depending on what genre you want to play. Let me know when you think you might come this way.

Jul 22, 2008
Gordy Greenawalt

Nelson,
Good meeting you at AVA. Interval is a great night that really does a excellent job of getting jazz out into the community and bringing in new listeners. Keep up the great work.

Stop by the Shadow Lounge next door for the Vipers Soul Club dance night! All 1960's R&B, Motown and Northern Soul - all original 45's. Our next event is this Saturday, July 26th at 10pm.

- Gordy
myspace.com/vipersoulclub
www.viperssoulclub.com

Jul 24, 2008
Sala Udin

Nelson, I've been having a conversation with some members of the August Wilson Board about the Jazz history of Pittsburgh. I have come up with an idea to have a filmed, panel discuss by some of the most knowledgable folks in Pittsburgh (while we're still among the living!). Some people see it happening at the 9th St. Gallery, I see it happening at someplace like Manchester Craftsmans Guild.

Do you think this is a timely idea and who are some of the folks you would invite?

Jul 25, 2008
diana bellone

At 2:29am on July 28th, 2008, diana bellone said…
hello!! and thank you very much for your beautifull comment,I´ll ty to upload some songs as I can, regrds from Argentina, Diana Bellone

Jul 28, 2008
Hotep Idris Galeta

Thanks my brother! I will certainly put some music on this site. I like what I see. We are a global community of jazz lovers and players so I've also establishes the South African Jazz Network.ning.com site.

Warmest Regards

Hotep

Jul 28, 2008
Sydney Ellis

Hi Nelson,

Thanks for your answer. I will contact you when I am putting together a tour.

Thanks again,
Sydney

Jul 28, 2008
janice lee

Good Morning Nelson,

Jul 28, 2008
CeCe Cole

Thank you inviting me. I'm glad to joing such legends artistic musical talent.

CeCe~

Jul 28, 2008
John Morton

Man, I've got a lot of history over there. Used to play the Sheraton on McKnight Rd. where Cecil Brooks and Bobby Jones were for years. Currently, occasionally I get to play with Leon Cook's son, Damen, who lives in Toledo. Great young lion.... Introduced me to Jon Hendricks. What a gas that's been! It's like having an audience with a god.

Jul 28, 2008
Elizabeth "Betty" Asche Douglas

Cool, Nelson. Your lyrics are a good fit.

Jul 29, 2008

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