Among USC Jazz Studies students, Harrison Chandler has earned the nickname: "the freshman on fire."
A first-year jazz studies major from Moncks Corner, SC, Harrison clinched this nickname soon after earning a seat in USC Jazz’s prestigious Left Bank Big Band. Then, in November, he was selected as the winner of the US Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium Jazz Competition - Junior Division.
The win earned Harrison an invitation to perform with the US Navy Band Commodores rhythm section during the 46th International Saxophone Symposium on January 9-10, 2026, at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA.
“The US Navy Band International Symposium was absolutely incredible! Everyone in the Commodores rhythm section was really supportive and welcoming of ideas that I wanted to try out. They truly uplifted my performance and brought new ideas out of me,” says Harrison.
The Commodores, the US Navy's premier jazz ensemble, have been performing the very best of big band jazz for the Navy and the nation for 50 years. Formed in 1969, the 18-member group considers jazz education classes and clinics an integral component of its mission.
Harrison says the experience performing with the Commodores at the Symposium gave him insight into becoming a better musician.
“I was able to ask lots of questions with several members of the Commodores, including their personal career paths, how they ended up in the band, and what they did before it. I also got to see Walter Smith III play with the band in rehearsal. He is a really charismatic, funny guy, but he also knew exactly what he wanted the band to sound like and what to say to them. Seeing that, along with his incredible playing, really inspired me,” says Harrison. “Because of this incredible experience, I've learned that I have to keep practicing to achieve my goals and stay focused.”
Because of this incredible experience, I've learned that I have to keep practicing to achieve my goals and stay focused. I believe this experience has prepared me in many ways, including how to receive feedback and improve myself.
– Harrison Chandler, USC Jazz Studies
Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and saxophonist Lauren Meccia remarks, "Harrison has impressive technical ability, but what sets his playing apart is the maturity of sound and improvisational language. Harrison has immersed himself in jazz language by consistently listening, practicing, and seeking opportunities to play with other musicians. His growth since enrolling in the USC Jazz Studies program has already been tremendous. We can't wait to see where he goes from here."
Next up for Harrison is performing with Left Bank Big Band in the 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Championship, hosted by Jazz at Lincoln Center, on January 17-18. He says the Saxophone Symposium experience was invaluable in preparing for the upcoming competition.
“Watching the rehearsal with the Commodores, I saw what true professionalism as a band looks like, as well as how to conduct an efficient rehearsal. Everyone respected each other and knew when it was time to be focused. I loved how everybody listened to each other to create better music,” explains Harrison. “These factors are all directly correlated with what JALC will be looking for in a band: professionalism, respect for the music, Interpretation of the music, playing with heart, and creating the best sounds you can.”
Pictured above: Harrison Chandler performs with U.S. Navy Band Commodores’ rhythm section: pianist Ryan Hanseler, guitarist Benjamin Turner, bassist William Ledbetter, and drummer Kevin McDonald.