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High School Days of Kamala Harris Involved Skilled Playing of French Horn and Percussion, and a Strong Affinity for George Gershwin's Music

Kamala Harris, Democratic vice president candidate, showcases her musical background during political campaigning.

At school, Kamala Harris exhibited her musical talents, proficiently playing the French horn and...
At school, Kamala Harris exhibited her musical talents, proficiently playing the French horn and percussion. She also shows a distinct preference for the works of George Gershwin.

High School Days of Kamala Harris Involved Skilled Playing of French Horn and Percussion, and a Strong Affinity for George Gershwin's Music

In a heartwarming visit to Liberty County High School in Hinesville, Georgia, during their campaign tour, US Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz shared their passion for music with the school's band.

As the high school band gasped and cheered upon their arrival, Harris, who was in a band herself during her youth, spoke about the power of unity. She compared the band's harmonious music to the symbolic beauty in students' lives, stating that while an individual's instrument is amazing, it becomes even more amazing as part of a band.

Walz echoed these sentiments, emphasising the power of unity, saying that an individual's instrument is impressive, but it's when they come together as a band that the true magic happens. He instinctively clapped along with the band as they played, adding to the joyous atmosphere.

Harris revealed her shopping bag contents, which included three vinyl albums. Her first choice was 'Let My Children Hear Music' by Charles Mingus, followed by Roy Ayers' album 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine' as her second choice, and her final choice was George Gershwin with selections from Porgy and Bess sung by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.

Harris has a personal favourite musician from her younger years: Prince. She almost knows every song by the legendary artist by heart. Her musical influences also include her parents' love for Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. In previous interviews, Harris has talked about her love for the funk-soul bassist Bootsy Collins.

Harris also mentioned R&B artists Brandy and Monica, as well as rappers Snoop Dogg, Tupac, and Cardi B. In addition, she has curated special playlists featuring Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, and Beyoncé.

The bandleader described Harris as "a woman of many talents," a sentiment that was evident in her love for music and her ability to connect with the students on a personal level. Harris told the students she was in a band when she was their age, inspiring the young musicians with her story.

This visit served as a reminder that music, like unity, has the power to bring people together and inspire future generations.

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