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Sam Harkness

Non-classical styles for the classically trained

Contact Info
Phone:
Email: RnBvoicez@att.net
Website:

Styles Taught

R&B, Jazz, Pop/Rock

Biography

Sam Harkness has been a highly respected teacher, singer, songwriter, and actor for over 30 years, whose experience encompasses music styles from “Blues “to “Broadway”.

A music major and graduate of New York’s famous High School of Performing Arts, Sam started at age 14, as lead singer and writer for his own acappella vocal group and has since worked with many gospel and jazz vocal groups, and in R&B and Blues venues throughout the country.

He has appeared as lead singer of Jump Street Blues Band at Tramp’s, Lone Star Café, gospel shows at the “world famous” Apollo Theater in Harlem, N.Y., the Village Gate.

On Broadway as leader of orchestral voices (pit captain) and as the “Cowardly Lion” in “The Wiz ” with Stephanie Mills and in “Reggae”, principal role Off-Broadway in “House of Flowers” with Patti La belle.
In film: principa l role as one the Chesterfields (vocal group) in the Hollywood movie picture, “American Hot Wax” which depicted the early days of rock n’ roll, and a wide range of experience in jingles, demos, and “session” work with the likes of Luther Vandross, Chic, the Village People, and Marvin Sease.

He has served as adjunct professor at Five Towns College, New York and lectured at the Jazz Coalition, as well in New York public schools under the auspices of International Jazz Artists. He is a songwriter and a member of ASCAP, and recipient of “Grammy” award for his music featured on Lena Horne’s “Lena on Broadway” recording.

Teaching Philosophy

Offering the physical, technical, and artistic aspects of non-classical singing styles . Helping beginners, classically trained, and professional singers to master performing in non-classical (commercial styles) without damaging their voice, and how to practice and analyze non-classical styles, breaking them down into elements that can be practiced individually and applied to your own performances. Also the use of microphones, home recording techniques.

Studio Policy

Twenty-four hours notice for cancellation or change in schedule.