Cory S.

Guitar

Genres: Jazz, Pop, Contemporary, Music Theory and Production

Teaches in English

 

Originally from Portland, Orgeon, guitarist Cory has been an active force in the New York City music scene since moving to the city in 2010 to attend The New School for Jazz & Contemporary Music. A versatile and expressive player, Cory has performed with acclaimed artists including Dave Weckl, Melvin Davis, John Stowell, and Scott Whitfield, as well as NYC bands such as Napoleon, D.A. Crimson, and Ryan Egan. His performance career has taken him to festivals such as the Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival, Port Townsend Jazz Festival, and Mount Hood Jazz Festival.

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In 2011, Cory earned first place in the jazz category of the Yamaha Six String Theory International Guitar Competition, an all-ages, all-genres event judged by industry greats including Steve Lukather, Lee Ritenour, Gary Tallent, and Scott Goldman of the GRAMMY Foundation.

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Cory is also an accomplished songwriter, producer, and recording engineer. He has released several albums of original music and produced or engineered projects for Silvio Vega, Gina Cimelli, the Wali Sanga, and others. He is especially proud of his students, several of whom have performed at the Governors Ball music festival and have been admitted to competitive music programs including LaGuardia High School and UC Berkeley.

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With more than 15 years of teaching experience, Cory teaches students ages 6 to 60, from beginners to advanced players. He offers lessons in all genres: rock, jazz, pop, theory, improvisation, songwriting and production. He has supported many students through successful audition preparations.

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Cory’s teaching philosophy centers on personalization: every student learns differently and every lesson should be crafted around their goals, age, experience, and preferred learning style. He strives to create a safe, inspiring, and motivating environment where students can grow, explore, and reach their musical potential.