Eric MorrisMusician & Teacher
San Francisco Conservatory of Music graduate, award-winning tenor, and 18-year university teacher of voice and theory, now sharing the plaintive, beautiful voice of the Chapman Stick.
A tenor, a teacher, and a Stick player.
I'm a San Francisco Conservatory of Music graduate in voice, with extra theory and composition classes added. I've won multiple awards for voice and composition, many of them with my a cappella group of over 20 years, the EDLOS.
I taught theory and voice at Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont for 18 years, and was tenor soloist for the first annual Sing-It-Yourself Messiah at the San Francisco Opera House. I've sung in 38 states, Europe, Central America, and much of Canada.
These days singing takes a secondary spot to the Chapman Stick. I sing sparingly, one or two tunes per set, accompanied by the Stick. I also play banjo and accordion.
Performances, lessons & good conversation
I play music on the Chapman Stick and teach voice, music theory, and sight-reading. Lessons on Stick, banjo, and accordion are also available. Performance fees are negotiated with distance, length of show, and necessary equipment in mind.
Chapman Stick Performances
Live sets on the Chapman Stick with a tune or two sung in tenor. Fees are negotiated around distance, length of show, and equipment needed.
Voice & Music Theory
Private instruction in voice, music theory, and sight-reading, drawing on 18 years of university teaching at Notre Dame de Namur.
Stick, Banjo & Accordion Lessons
Lessons for curious beginners and seasoned players alike on the Chapman Stick, banjo, and accordion.
Horticulture & Cooking
An avid cook and horticulturist, always happy to swap ideas, recipes, and growing tips with like-minded folks.
Honoring Emmett Chapman
The inventor of the Stick, Emmett Chapman, passed away recently. I wish to honor him by getting his amazing instrument in front of as many folks as possible.
Emmett Chapman
Emmett was a genius, and left the world a far better place with his amazing instrument. Over five octaves, played by merely tapping the strings, the Stick deserves many more to hear its plaintive and beautiful voice.
The EDLOS on YouTube
Over 20 years of award-winning a cappella with the EDLOS. Watch performances on the group's channel.
Visit the channelChapman Stick recordings
Stick recordings are on the way. Follow along on Facebook for new performances and releases.
Follow on FacebookThe banjo, the accordion, and a little theory
Eric plays banjo and accordion alongside the Chapman Stick, and teaches the theory that ties them all together.
Banjo
The banjo brings its own warmth and history, ringing out through a set or a lesson.
Accordion
The accordion rounds out the sound with breath and pulse, at home in a set or in a lesson.
Theory
Good basic theory ties it all together. Understanding how music works makes every instrument easier to learn and every performance more expressive.
Questions, answered
What is a Chapman Stick?
A ten or twelve string instrument invented by Emmett Chapman. It spans over five octaves and is played by tapping the strings with both hands, so bass lines, chords, and melody can all happen at once.
Do you book private events and venues?
Yes. Performance fees are negotiated based on distance, length of the show, and the equipment needed. Reach out with your date and location.
Do you teach complete beginners?
Absolutely. Voice, theory, and sight-reading lessons are tailored to your level, whether you are just starting out or preparing for an audition.
Are lessons available online?
Get in touch to discuss options. Many theory and voice lessons work well remotely, while instrument lessons may benefit from meeting in person.
Why is basic music theory so important?
Theory is the shared language of music. A solid foundation makes learning songs faster, improves sight-reading, and opens the door to writing your own music.
Where can I hear your music?
Visit the EDLOS YouTube channel for a cappella performances, and follow along on Facebook for updates on Stick performances and recordings.
Let's make some music
together.
For performances, lessons, teaching opportunities, or just to swap recipes and gardening tips. Send a note or give me a call.