Lana Harris

Lana Harris is a native Texan with family roots in Austin dating back to the 1800s. She attended the University of Texas for her Bachelor’s degree in Plan II Liberal Arts, and also for her Doctor of Jurisprudence, graduating with highest honors, and honors respectively. As the daughter of a music educator, music has been an integral part of her life since birth. She began playing at the age of 5 in the UT String Project, switching from violin to viola as soon as it was allowed (since the family already had a violinist and a cellist in the form of her two older sisters). She had her first lesson with then professor of viola at UT, Donald Wright, in 6th grade as part of the Longhorn Music Camp’s first year of operation. She then studied with Mr. Wright on a year-round basis while in high school and college. Ms. Harris has been a member of the Austin Symphony since she won her first audition with them in the Fall of 1984; subsequently choosing to stay in Austin close to family with her husband, Scott Duff, and (eventually) 3 children. During her music career, she has played in a country band, done some recording for soundtracks and other projects, and participated in many performances with choral groups and symphonies throughout Texas. She also was privileged to attend the Aspen Music School in the 1980s, where she studied with Karen Tuttle. In her spare time, she is an active high school band mom (Go McNeil Mavericks!), Scout mom, and she enjoys outdoor activities and SCUBA diving.