Zach Harris is the Director of Orchestras and Modern Band at Capital and Helena High Schools in Helena, Montana. Zach specializes in upper string and orchestral pedagogy. Beyond his 30 years of string experience, Zach also has nearly 20 years of low brass and vocal training. Zach has taught 5-12 Band, 4-12 Orchestra, 6-12 Choir, K-5 General Music, and K-8 at a residential home for emotionally disturbed students. Beginning in 2016 Zach was hired to rebuild the string programs in Helena. Starting with around 18 students total, the programs now boast over 90 students. In 2016, Zach became trained in Modern Band. This training introduced Zach to the approach of Music as a Second Language and the philosophy of approximation over mastery. After 20 years using a conservatory approach, Zach began developing beginning string pedagogy and curriculum based upon these philosophies. Zach has presented his curriculum multiple times at Modern Band Summit National convention to both string and non-string teachers which has been met with great support and enthusiasm.
