GET TO KNOW: Michael Allen Harrison

Portland-based composer and pianist Michael Allen Harrison has spent more than three decades building an extraordinary musical career, combining expressive piano compositions with cinematic storytelling and a commitment to making music accessible to young people. With over 90 albums to his name, his work spans multiple genres while maintaining a strong emphasis on emotional connection, creativity and community engagement.

His latest release 'Find The Snowman' is a heartwarming children's song exploring the importance of friendship, courage and unconditional love. Inspired by the emotional storytelling of classic Disney films, the track follows the tender relationship between a single mother and her young daughter, encouraging children to find confidence and connection even during uncertain moments.

So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and influences over the years.

What was the first band or artist you fell in love with? 

The Beatles - Saw them on Ed Sullivan Feb. 9th , 1964 - I was completely mesmerized!

Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like? 

My first band started in my basement, I was 13 and just got my first keyboards (Farfisa Organ & Wurlitzer electric piano)

We played Beatles, Stones, Santana, Iron Butterfly, Buddy Holly, Doors, Elton John, pretty much stuff we thought was cool!

What has been your primary inspiration in writing music? 

Actually everything I love listening to. I’m classically trained and studied jazz, love musical theater.

Chopin, Mozart, Tchaikovsky & Beethoven are my biggest heroes in the classical world.

Keith Jarret, Herbie Hancock, Art Tatum and Oscar Peterson from the jazz world.

So many great film composers and broadway musical song writers have made their mark.

Gershwin… big time inspiration! 

All of my teachers and mentors who encouraged me to develop my talent.

I had dinner with Quincy Jones in the early Nineties and that moment influenced my path immensely.

What is a song you wish you had written yourself? 

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be? 

My first performance with an orchestra… I would have approached it differently

Which artist would you most love to share a stage with? 

It’s a tie between Bette Midler and Lady Gaga

And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well? 

It’s a tie between Bette Midler and Lady Gaga

Where do you see yourself in five years time? 

Scoring 2 motion pictures

Finished my 4 book series of the Snowman And the red Thread

Development of an Animated feature film for the Snowman And the red Thread

National growth with my non-profit “Play It Forward”

Redevelopment of my show “Ten Grands For Kids”

Michael Allen Harrison's new single 'Find The Snowman' is out now. Check it out below.