It was one of those random moments when the world provided a glimpse into something magical. Band director Jeremy Stanley stumbled across a student playing his trumpet in the school parking lot for a few other students during spring break a few years ago.

Listening to the melody, he realized this student had not only determination but also the talent to use his trumpet to travel many different avenues. Harrison Ellis was in the 8th grade then and has definitely lived up to the vision Jeremy saw for him.

Senior year at Fultondale High School

Now a senior at Fultondale high school, he was recently accepted to Samford University on a full scholarship for a music conservatory. He is a star student and currently succeeding in dual enrollment with college and high school classes. His intensive drive and dedication have brought him not only attention but accolades and awards as well.

Harrison Ellis was awarded 3rd place out of 81 participants for the state in the ABA State Solo Competition; results were announced during the concert by the University of South Alabama Wind Ensemble.

Harrison gave a fantastic performance of the first movement of Joseph Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto in the finals of the All-State Solo Festival Competition last week.

He also performed in the 2022 All-State High School Red Band in Mobile on April 7-9th.

Harrison is part of the band at Fultondale under the direction of Jeremy Stanley. This is his fifth year at Fultondale for Mr. Stanley and his 18 years as a band director. He conducts the entire band program, which includes grades 6-12 and consists of around 27 students.

Congratulations to Harrison, Mr. Stanley, the band, and Fultondale High School for these great honors.

Young people, as positive role models are always winners. Harrison is paving the way for not just his own future but also for fellow band members.

Here he is playing the National Anthem for the Birmingham Squadron!