Who is Holly Harrison?
Greetings! I’m an Australian composer from Western Sydney. I write music for orchestras, chamber ensembles, wind bands, and everything in-between, here in Australia and abroad. I have a background as a trumpet player and rock drummer, and greatly enjoy mentoring the next generation of composers.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If we’re talking vocationally, I’d love to be a vet or doctor in a different life. I absolutely love animals and I’m also deeply fascinated by anything medical.
Who inspires you and why?
In my youth I was very much inspired by the likes of Frank Zappa, Freddie Mercury, and Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull, but these days I’m inspired by anyone who has the courage to unapologetically be themselves, especially musically.
Working in a creative realm, it’s not always easy to express the most vulnerable part of yourself, completely unimpeded, and achieve the result you’re after. I’m also greatly inspired by the nonsense works of Lewis Carroll.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d make it compulsory to be vegetarian! Perhaps an unpopular move…
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Most of my travelling is for work, so whenever I have a creative break, I find myself returning to the Xbox. There’s no better escape than outer-space, futuristic city-scapes, and medieval empires. I think it helps give some perspective on life, plus keeps my hand-eye coordination in check.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Being from the Blue Mountains, it’s hard to go past an epic view. Megalong Valley or Jamison Valley – take your pick! Simply stunning.
What are you currently reading?
Honestly, mostly scores and emails at the moment! I’m preparing for a big gig and am proofing the set of score and parts. In my next break, perhaps a crime thriller or sci-fi novel.
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve recently been introduced to the experimental rock duo Angine de Poitrine and wow, they do not disappoint. Asymmetrical grooves and papier-mache masks – what’s not to like?
Happiness is?
A cat curled up on my lap in the middle of winter!
What does the future hold for you?
Next up for me is the world premiere of my Concerto for Amplified Classical Accordion and Orchestra, InsideOut. Written especially for virtuoso James Crabb, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and Ben Northey present the premiere on 17 and 18 July at the Adelaide Town Hall. Later in the year, it travels to Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, and West Australian Symphony Orchestra. I can’t wait to share it!
Holly’s new work, InsideOut: Concerto for Amplified Classical Accordion and Orchestra, will receive its world premiere with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra at Adelaide Town Hall on 17 & 18 July 2026. For more information, visit: www.aso.com.au for details.
Image: Holly Harrison (supplied)