Harrison Chiang
Composer, performer, innovator
About Me
Harrison Chiang is a composer and instrumentalist from Corona, California, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Composition at the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California. His music draws on memorable melody, rich harmony, and dense contrapuntal textures. He has written for wind band, orchestra, clarinet choir, and chamber ensembles, often exploring distinctive instrumental color and expanded ensembles. As a performer, Chiang is active on bass trombone and low clarinets, with ensembles such as the USC Thornton Winds and Plattsburgh Clarinet Choir. Alongside composing and performing, he designs and builds custom instruments, modifications, and accessories, experiences that continue to shape his unique approach to orchestration and performance.
Recent Works
Windswept
The word “windswept” might imply being blown by the wind, either flowing freely and relaxed or being thrown violently through gusts and bursts. In this march, the contrast between the interpretations is explored; the traditionally militaristic, bombastic, raucous character of a march while being contrasted by several free and relaxed, yet bittersweet melodies.
Premiere performance of “Windswept” by the USC Thornton Clarinet Choir on April 25th, 2025 directed by Professor Sharon Lavery.
Sketches of Reckoning
The prospect that anything beautiful can become bitter in an instant is frightening. And coming to acceptance isn’t easy. “Sketches of Reckoning” portrays elegance, wistfulness, naivety, conflict, and anguish. Reckoning, if you will.
Performance of “Sketches of Reckoning” on May 13th, 2025 for the Freshmen Class of 28’ Composition Final Recital.
Extensions and Accessories
for Low Clarinets (and more soon!)
Contact Me
Contact me for inquiries about commissions, orders, music, or anything else!