Teacher Profile: Christopher Harper

About Christopher Harper

Christopher Harper began playing percussion at the age of 12 in middle school band class, and he has been dedicated to learning and performing music ever since. He took private drumset lessons with Billy Ashbaugh for ten years and attended the University of North Florida, where he performed in various percussion ensembles and learned a wide range of percussion instruments, from board instruments to timpani. During his time at the university, he studied concert percussion under the guidance of Kevin Gary.

Christopher's professional achievements include winning the best percussion section in the state at the Leesburg marching band competition. He performed with the band O'rchard, writing and recording two EPs, "Recuerdos de" and "Ochre Roots," and one album, "#1040." The band performed at various venues around Florida, including The Social and 64 North. As the drummer for the 2016 UNF Jazz Ensemble, he performed at numerous festivals and competitions.

Christopher's first foray into teaching was at a summer camp for musicians, where he was assigned to assist drummers with their parts. This experience ignited his passion for sharing the joy of music. He focuses on musicianship and active listening behind the drums, prioritizing the student's musical interests to build their drive and desire to play. Students can expect to engage with the entire drum set and learn grooves extensively from the beginning.