‘Glee’ Composer Shares Life

Turn on an episode of the hit television show “Glee” and you might catch a glimpse of musician and composer Brad Ellis quietly playing the piano in the background of a glee club rendition of Britney Spears or Madonna.

Allen G. Feinstein ’86, the musical director of the Harvard Pops Orchestra and a friend of the artist posed questions to Ellis last night in the Adams House LCR.

In the style of his television persona, Ellis sat contentedly at the piano, as he told the audience stories about his experiences in the music, theater, and television industries.

“For me, having fingers on the piano is crucial,” Ellis said.

While technology has evolved so that artists and the music industry favor electronic music, Ellis has remained devoted to the acoustic piano, which he said helped him secure his role on “Glee.”

“Things like ‘Glee’ are a fluke because it matters that I still play,” Ellis said.

Ellis currently spends his time on screen and composing music for “Glee,” which he said has been his favorite project thus far in his life.

“The cast of ‘Glee’ is incredibly grateful. The set is the happiest place for me,” he said.

Unlike the silent, mysterious accompanist he plays on television, Ellis’ real-life personality is quirky and humorous.

“He’s a mystery,” said Madison A. Greer ’13. “You never get anything out of his character so I was really interested in what he had to say. He’s awesome.”

Ellis entertained the audience with vibrant stories supplemented by animated hand gestures and imitations of celebrities, like Billy Joel, with whom Ellis has collaborated in the past.

“The original idea is that ‘Glee’ Brad is a misanthrope. ‘Glee’ Brad is taciturn. Clearly that’s not me,” he said.

Ellis described himself as an accompanist and musical coach, often helping actors—such as Salma Hayek—to overcome their fears about their lack of vocal ability.

“Most forms of conducting, playing piano with other people, teaching has got to be a part of it,” said Ellis.

Outside of Glee, Ellis has worked with charity organizations, including connecting with autistic children through music.

Ellis’ relationship with Pops Musical Director Allen Feinstein ’86 began when the two were working on a musical together.

“I love the way he plays clarinet,” Ellis said. “Everything he plays means something. We became very good friends.”

This Saturday night, Ellis will be the guest performer with the Harvard Pops Orchestra for their first alumni-reunion concert, “Pops Comes of Age.”