Orphaned at age three, James Samuel “Cornbread” Harris Sr. grew up in foster care until moving to Saint Paul to live with his grandparents at age 11. Though he didn’t take to his forced childhood piano lessons, Cornbread realized the unifying power of music while serving in WWII, and began to finesse his piano skills after the war.

Since then, Cornbread has played with many groups around the Twin Cities including Augie Garcia and Cadillac Kolstad. Well into his 80s, he continues to keep several weekly gigs around the metro area.

Additional Media
Church of Saint Bernard
Minnesota Historical Society
Peter Myers

Special Thanks
Charlie Deutsch
Joe Henkin
Capri Theater
Pillsbury United Communities
Loring Pasta Bar
Joe Henkin
The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

More Info
Cornbread Harris