Chad Coe
Chad Coe has been a part of New York's jazz scene since 1997. Admired by fellow musicians for his lyrical and fluid playing, Chad takes pride in his warm, clear, and bell like tone. He is drawn to interesting harmony and owes much to his friend and mentor, guitarist Peter Leitch. Chad enjoys playing classic standards, particularly those with complex forms and beautiful melodies. With his trio, Chad creates a musically supportive atmosphere commanding musical clarity and dynamic balance. Chad has drawn influence from many of the traditional jazz greats but is particularly drawn to the playing of Jim Hall, Coltrane, and Red Garland.
Originally from Mississippi, Chad was inspired at a young age by the stories and haunting voices of the great blues players from the Mississippi delta. He started playing the guitar at age 11 and later began studying jazz. Chad graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Guitar Performance from The University of North Florida where he studied under Jack Petersen and Barry Greene. Two years later, Chad graduated with a Master's Degree in music from the Manhattan School of Music in New York where he studied with Jack Wilkins.
Pursuing a musical education both in and out of the classroom, Chad had opportunities to perform at venues such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, St. John the Divine, BargeMusic, Detour, and The Puck Building, and has performed for numerous private clients such as FAO Schwarz, The River Club, de Grisogono, and Starbucks Corporate. Earlier this year, he had a 4 month engagement at Brooklyn's NoNO Kitchen. In 2006, Chad contributed to jazz pianist Alex Levin's second release "A Reason for Being Alone". He is currently working on the music for a trio album that will be produced Peter Leitch.
Chad has been on faculty at Saint Ann's School in Brooklyn Heights since 1999. In addition to guitar, he teaches Jazz Techniques, Jazz Combo, Jazz Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Theory, and maintains a private studio. Chad is an avid photographer as well and still prefers film. Chad resides in Brooklyn with his wife, soprano Sarah Arikian.