Derrick Harris
Corona,CA
Summary
Music Teacher with 35 years of vocal performance experience and 17 years in the professional music industry. Graduate of Musicians Institute specializing in Vocal Technique, with expertise in harmony, vocal arrangements, and songwriting. Proven ability to coach students across all skill levels, fostering growth from beginners to aspiring professionals. Experienced performer with A-list artists, skilled in multiple genres including Gospel, R&B, and Jazz.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Studio Vocalist & Songwriter
Warner Chappell Music
Los Angeles, Ca
04.2023 - Current
- Collaborated with producers and artists on songwriting, arranging, and recording projects.
- Performed vocals for diverse projects across multiple genres and artists.
- Participated in recording sessions to provide creative input and enhance tracks.
- Composed and arranged harmonies and background vocals for albums, commercials, and film/TV.
Independent Music Educator & Vocal Coach
Rockstars of Tomorrow
Norco, Ca
01.2014 - Current
- Provided one-on-one and group vocal instruction tailored to diverse learning styles and experience levels.
- Specialize in vocal technique, breath control, pitch accuracy, harmony, and performance coaching.
- Prepare students for auditions, studio sessions, and live performances.
- Online teaching, Vocal performance, beginner and intermediate piano lessons.
Touring Vocalist & Background Singer
Various A-List Artists
01.2006 - Current
- Performed as a lead and background vocalist for world-renowned artists across multiple genres.
- Managed vocal arrangements and supported live sound production for high-profile stage performances.
- Maintained vocal health and consistency through demanding tour schedules.
- Stage Presence & Audience Engagement, Interpretation & Expression, Rehearsal Leader.
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
01.2003 - 01.2007
- Conducted land-based and amphibious operations of an offensive, defensive, humanitarian, reconnaissance or security nature.
- Trained in the art of land warfare, trained to improvise, adapt and overcome any obstacle in various situations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University Of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ04-2013
Music Enrichment
Newark Boys Chorus
Newark, New Jersey01.1998
Vocal Technique Certificate -
Musicians Institute
Los Angeles, CASkills
- Vocal Technique & Development
- Performance coaching
- Concert production
- Creative collaboration
- Effective communication
- Audience engagement
- Conflict resolution
- Time management
- Special needs accommodation
- Choral conducting
- Improvisation techniques
- Performance assessment
- Parent-teacher communication
- Music history
- Band directing
- Student evaluation
- World music appreciation
- Multicultural music appreciation
- Vocal tone
- Rehearsals
- Curriculum development and lesson planning
- Performance preparation
- Costuming
- Behavior management
- Harmony & Vocal Arrangements
- Background Vocals
- Songwriting & Lyric Development
- Piano Performance
- Studio Recording & Live Performance
- Student Mentorship & Creative Coaching
- Pro Tools
- Logic Pro X
- Music Notation
- Ear Training
- Band Leading
- Music Directing
- Artist & Contract Development
- Microphone Technique
- Stage Presence Coaching
- Rhythm
- Dance
References
Available upon request
Instruments
- Voice, Primary
- Piano, Secondary
Music Industry Highlights
- Toured across the U.S., Europe, and Asia with Grammy-winning artists.
- Featured on multiple studio albums, TV performances, and commercials.
- Co-wrote songs featured on streaming platforms and in film placements.
- Recognized for strong work ethic, vocal versatility, and mentorship skills.
Timeline
Studio Vocalist & Songwriter
Warner Chappell Music
04.2023 - Current
Independent Music Educator & Vocal Coach
Rockstars of Tomorrow
01.2014 - Current
Touring Vocalist & Background Singer
Various A-List Artists
01.2006 - Current
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
01.2003 - 01.2007
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University Of Phoenix
Music Enrichment
Newark Boys Chorus
Vocal Technique Certificate -
Musicians Institute
Similar Profiles
Jonathan LimJonathan Lim
Song-composer/ Music Producer at Smallbox Music & Warner Chappell Music Asia PacSong-composer/ Music Producer at Smallbox Music & Warner Chappell Music Asia Pac
Edgar CortazarEdgar Cortazar
Songwriter at Warner Chappell MusicSongwriter at Warner Chappell Music
SINÉAD V. HARTMANNSINÉAD V. HARTMANN
VP Licensing & Music Creative Production Music at WARNER CHAPPELL MUSICVP Licensing & Music Creative Production Music at WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC
Kristine CartyKristine Carty
Analyst, Physician Relations at DaVita Kidney careAnalyst, Physician Relations at DaVita Kidney care
Jessica CabralJessica Cabral
Preschool Family Service Assistant at Anaheim Elementary School DistrictPreschool Family Service Assistant at Anaheim Elementary School District