Ed Harris – Full Article
December 2024
Clif’s Notes by Clifton Swanson
Retired Member of the Bass Section, and Conductor 1971-1984
Those who have attended San Luis Obispo Symphony concerts for many years will recognize Ed Harris, a member of the bass section since 1975. In the Fall of 2024, he will have been a member of the Symphony for 50 years! Even more impressive, Ed missed only one concert during those 50 years. He must certainly be a candidate for a Guinness World Record.
Music has played an important role in Ed’s life. Beginning with clarinet in the 4th grade, then in the 7th grade, at the suggestion of his orthodontist (no wind instruments!), he chose to move to the string bass in order to fill a gap in the orchestra. (This is not an unusual experience for bass players!) Arriving at Cal Poly to major in Industrial Engineering in 1970, he soon transferred to Graphic Design, and graduated in four years with an emphasis on printing.
Quick to seek out opportunities to play, in his freshman year he joined the Cal Poly Chamber Orchestra which tended to perform unique works as well as standard repertoire. A fan of the music of Charles Ives, he was a little disappointed that one of the pieces included on his first program was Ives’ Hallowe’en for Strings, Piano and Bass Drum, but no part for a string bass! Bass players are not used to being left out!
After graduation from Cal Poly, Ed entered into the printing business but eventually decided to choose another path. Becoming an elementary school aid led to substitute teaching for many years. Choosing to be a substitute teacher enabled Ed to choose a more flexible personal schedule. Fortunately, his music background qualified him to oversee music ensembles, something that most substitutes pale at the thought. Popular with the students, Ed was the “go to guy” for music and this has served him well.
Connecting with other local musicians (in the 70s), Ed’s first regular gig was a lengthy stint at the SLO Breakers Restaurant, then a regular at the “1865” restaurant and, ultimately, he formed a popular jazz/dance band named “Oasis.” Even now, Ed is recognized by those who enjoy an evening out, a wedding, or other social events. He was, and still is, considered a regular in the local music scene including classical organizations such as the SLO Symphony, Santa Barbara Symphony, Santa Maria Philharmonic, Orchestra Novo, and Lompoc Pops.
Ed’s 50-year participation in the SLO Symphony began in November 1975. The program included Beethoven’s Consecration of the House Overture, Haydn’s Symphony No. 103, and Brahms’ Violin Concerto performed by David Abel. A remarkable violinist, Abel heads a list of solo violinists with whom Ed performed including Anne Akiko Meyers, Kathleen Lenski, pianist Jeffrey Kahane, cellist Zuill Bailey, bassist Gary Karr, and SLO Symphony’s current principal bass, Ken Hustad, just to name a few of his favorites.
The “Royal Forster” Double Bass
SLO Symphony audiences over the years might be impressed to learn that they have been hearing an extremely rare and treasured instrument! Ed Harris is the proud owner of one of four string basses made by English luthier William Forster II, sometimes known as the “Royal Forster” from his title “Music Seller to the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cumberland”. Made in approximately 1790 “at the direction” of King George II, Ed’s bass is highly prized, and in exceptional condition. Carved into the back of the instrument is a royal crown, confirming its distinctive pedigree that stirs the imagination. Purchased from the estate of local cardiologist and former member of the orchestra, Dr. Henry Zevely, the Royal Forster bass has fascinated musicians and historic instrument scholars for years.
The San Luis Obispo Symphony is truly remarkable for the many musicians who can be traced back to the early years of its history. High Notes has featured many locals and it is a pleasure to include Ed Harris and his bass in this edition.