Composing a Life in Music and Math
Piano, Composer, Flashback · LSM Student Since 2014
From the moment Harry Christiansen sat down at a piano, it was clear: his mind was wired for music. Patterns, phrasing, movement—it all made sense. Music, to Harry, was never just a subject. It was a language. A puzzle. A system to explore and express. And over the years, he has become not just a performer, but a creator, thinker, and leader.
“I always remember hearing my mom play her original music on the piano when we were little. I didn’t realize how much that stuck with me.”
Harry first came to Little School of Music with his twin sister, Lily. Their mom, Susy Christiansen—a pianist, cellist, and composer—knew how important it was to find the right teacher. Someone who could challenge, inspire, and nurture their love for music from the beginning. Harry began his piano studies with Catina DeLuna, and later continued his advanced development with Jean DeMart.
“Harry is constantly curious. He doesn’t just play music—he studies it, questions it, reshapes it. That’s what makes him extraordinary.”
— Jean DeMart
At one point, Harry explored drums alongside piano, experimenting with rhythm and new textures. But ultimately, piano remained his instrument of choice. It’s where he felt most expressive, challenged, and at home.
Over the years, Harry has built an impressive resume as a soloist, accompanist, improviser, and composer. He’s a multi-time winner at the Southern California Junior Bach Festival, as well as the SCVMTAC Contemporary and Romantic Festivals. In 2024, he became the inaugural winner of the Santa Clarita Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition, performing Shostakovich with grace and power.
Harry also composed Fantasy Variations in Eb Major, and recently wrote an original work that will be performed by the Valencia High School Wind Ensemble this month. His talents were recognized internationally when he was named a finalist in the Young Artists and Authors Showcase—a major accomplishment for any young composer.
In his senior recital, Harry combined his love for jazz and improvisation with a performance of “There Will Never Be Another You,” showcasing the confidence and freedom he’s developed over the years.
Alongside his solo accomplishments, Harry has grown as a collaborative musician. He played jazz piano with the Valencia High School Jazz Band, the William S. Hart Honor Jazz Band, and became the keyboardist for Flashback, Little School of Music’s rock band. With Flashback, he performed at the WorldStrides Heritage Festivals in Anaheim and Hollywood, earning Gold ratings and finding deeper purpose in musical community.
“Playing in bands changed how I saw music. It gave it meaning beyond myself—it became about community.”
This fall, Harry will attend UC Santa Barbara, where he will double major in mathematics and music composition—a fitting blend of structure, imagination, and innovation.
“Music is math, just expressed differently. Composition is like solving a creative equation. When it clicks, it’s beautiful.”
His mom, Susy, reflects on his transformation:
“Music gave Harry discipline, but also freedom. I’ve watched him grow into someone who is confident, expressive, and connected to the world in a deeper way.”
Harry’s legacy is one of brilliance, creativity, and leadership. Whether composing, improvising, or collaborating, he brings heart, intellect, and joy to everything he does.
Harry, we are so proud of you. Congratulations on all that you’ve accomplished—and everything you’re about to create next.
You will always be part of the Little School of Music family. 🎹🎼♥️