Darrius Willrich: Harmony in Music and Education
Photos provided by Darrius Willrich
By Emma Schwichtenberg
The phrase 'those who can’t do, teach' doesn’t apply to Darrius Willrich, a singer, songwriter, pianist, and educator.
He began his musical journey at around 15, initially taking piano lessons, which sparked a deep interest in the instrument. This passion for the ivory keys persisted through college, where he pursued jazz piano studies and eventually built a career around his art.
Inspired by legends like Stevie Wonder and Prince, Willrich's music reflects a deep appreciation for rich harmonic chords and soulful melodies.
Beyond performing, Willrich has made significant contributions to music education, teaching jazz piano at Seattle Central College and through private lessons. His approach emphasizes starting with major scales, believing they unlock the complexities of music effectively. Reflecting on his teaching career, Willrich highlights the importance of nurturing genuine interest and passion in his students.
His music career reached new heights with the release of his album "Can't Get Enough," featuring the acclaimed track "Get Down to This Loving." This album marked a turning point, benefiting from Willrich's decision to collaborate with seasoned producers, enhancing the production quality and commercial appeal.
Willrich spoke to Converge Music about how he continues to evolve artistically and how his music remains a testament to his diverse influences and unwavering dedication to his craft.
How did you get started in music?
“I got interested in music around age 12, started piano lessons at 15, and studied jazz piano at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle.”
What was it about piano that specifically stood out to you?
“It just called to me, even though my grandma played and there was always a piano around. It wasn't until I heard a friend play a song I loved that I got hooked.”
How did Seattle's culture or environment shape your musical style or career decisions?
“Seattle's rich musical history and talented community influenced me, though my main influences were Stevie Wonder and Prince.”
What stood out to you about Stevie Wonder and Prince?
“Their consistent high-quality output over long careers really impressed me.”
How did studying jazz piano at Cornish College of the Arts impact your relationship with music?
“It deepened my love for jazz piano and enriched my understanding of harmonics.”
When did you start teaching music, and what led you to pursue music education?
“After deciding to focus solely on music for income, I began teaching, starting at Seattle Central Community College as a private jazz instructor.”
What was your songwriting process like, especially with songs that took years to complete?
“Usually, I start with chord progressions and sometimes the lyrics come much later. Inspiration can come from life situations or random melodies in my head.”
What do you draw on for inspiration when creating music?
“It varies with each song—life experiences, emotions, or just a feeling in the moment.”
How did the song "Get Down to This Loving" achieve commercial success?
“Hiring better producers for that album significantly improved its production quality, which I believe contributed to its success.”
What was it like not producing the album yourself?
“It was freeing—I could focus more on writing, singing, and emoting, which are my strengths.”
Can you tell me a bit about the private course you're currently teaching?
“The course I'm teaching now is a program called Jazz Piano Pro. It's a system to get aspiring pianists up and running fast without making it complicated. I teach playing like a professional by having students reenvisioning the major scale to learn how to play from lead sheets. The major scale is a low bar of entry and everyone can get that. The thing is most teachers have you learn that but then have you go learn a bunch of other things. My program has you use the major scale to source everything, chords, chord progressions, songs and improv so you're not pulled in a million directions and trying to keep track of it all.”
When did you start writing and producing your debut album, "Love Will Visit"?
”Well my debut album was called "Darrius" and was released in 1999. I started that one in 1997 after my first trip to NYC.”
How did the experience of playing music privately differ from releasing it to the public?
“The whole point for me of making music is to share it. There are some times in my life though when I'm not sure how I would've survived if I didn't have the ability to play or musically express myself to the other side. Art is pretty wonderful self work.”
How do you view each of your albums differently, and do you have a personal favorite?
“Well the more I do it the better they get. The first one has a first time charm to it though. It was 100% live. My favorites are '"Can't Get Enough" and "Stay Here With Me" because it got a lot of people together from different parts of my life that don't usually touch.”
Currently refining his production skills, Darrius Willrich is actively engaged in crafting both solo works and collaborative projects. Explore his music online at darriuswillrich.rocks.
