ABOUT ANDRE

Andre Harness is a saxophonist, bandleader, and dedicated jazz educator based in Southeast Texas. He is the founder and artistic director of The Golden Triangle Big Band, an 18-piece ensemble focused on preserving the tradition of big band jazz while expanding access to live performance and music education across the region.

With over 15 years of experience, Andre has performed with a variety of professional ensembles including the Conrad Johnson Orchestra, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, and the Republic of Texas Big Band. During his time with the Lamar University Cardinal Jazz Orchestra, he shared the stage with world-renowned jazz artists such as Jon Faddis, Bobby Sanabria, Allen Vizzutti, and Tamir Hendelman, gaining formative experience that continues to shape his work today.

Andre also leads smaller groups, including The Andre Harness Quartet and The Lunch Combo, which have been featured at regional jazz festivals and community events. These ensembles allow him to explore more intimate musical settings and expand his reach as a performer and educator.

In addition to performance, Andre is a passionate advocate for music education. He has led jazz clinics for high school students throughout Southeast Texas, judged regional jazz festivals, and hosted All-Region preparation events through TMEA and ATSSB. From 2023 to 2025, he served as host of Friday Night Jazz on KVLU 91.3 FM, curating broadcasts that celebrated the depth and diversity of jazz history.

Andre holds a Bachelor of Arts in Saxophone Performance and a Master of Business Administration from Lamar University, which he earned to further advance the nonprofit mission of his band and deepen his leadership in the arts. 

Through every note, Andre seeks to build community, inspire young musicians, and ensure jazz continues to thrive in Southeast Texas and beyond.