Music bridges duo’s generational gap
by Sherri Jones, reporter

    Elizabeth Harris and Argyle Woodruff share more than just being students in the same Harmony II class.

    Harris is Woodruff’s grandmother.

Both took the same class when Woodruff recommended his grandmother take Harmony II.

    James Barros, associate professor and music department chair, also helped convince Harris.

    The two have always had a love for music, and music was something that brought peace and comfort into their homes.

    Harris played the piano at 7 and continued for 12 years. Then she decided to switch gears and study science.

    After receiving a degree, Harris became a microbiology professor at the University of North Texas, where she also was head of the department.

    In ’98 Harris joined TCC, where she decided to pursue her love for music.

    Woodruff’s expressed admiration for Barros led the two to Harmony II.

    While Harris takes up residence on the piano, Woodruff plays the guitar or piano and sings. He is planning a degree in music education.

    Music was introduced to the two when both were young.

    Woodruff is actively involved at Smithfield Baptist Church, where his father is the music minister.

    Harris served as choir director for Smithfield Baptist Church choir 27 years ago.

    Woodruff and Harris have sparkles in their eyes when they talk about being in class together.

    “I love her very much. I think this is a rare experience, but it’s a very special one. She has given me so much. We set a good example to others of a true, loving, supportive family,” Woodruff said.

    “It’s very special that he has no problems with my being in the same class as he. I would have had a problem if my grandmother were in class with me,” Harris said.

    Woodruff is the oldest of Harris’ 10 grandchildren.

    When time allows, Woodruff and Harris get together for lunch or spend quality time together.

    “It’s fun to talk to Argyle about the science of music and to do some academic digging,” she said.

    Next year the two plan on taking Harmony III with Barros, who is nicknamed “Bubba.”

    Woodruff and Harris think Barros has a rare gift and a true love for music.

    “This gift draws us to him,” she said.

    “Elizabeth and Argyle are two of my best students,” Barros said.