Craig Mc Gorry

Teaches at New York Jazz Workshop

Craig McGorry is a tenor and soprano saxophonist living and teaching in New York City for over 20 years. He focuses on helping beginner and intermediate saxophone students, both adults and children, develop their tone, technique, musicianship, and improvisation skills while building their repertoire. Craig’s approach involves determining how much time each student has to practice and helping them put together a realistic practice plan that moves them forward and keeps them feeling a sense of development. Additionally, he believes in continuous development of the ear through the use of the voice and often uses solfege to help students develop a stronger connection to what they hear in their mind and want to play on their instrument. Craig can also help students develop their functional piano skills, something every musician needs, which can help their understanding of music theory and composing. Craig studied jazz/commercial music at Five Towns College, majoring in saxophone and piano, and has studied extensively with various private saxophone teachers over the years. A passionate educator, Craig has trained in music education, including studying the Orff Method at The Eastman School of Music and receiving Kodaly Certification from New York University. He also holds a Master of Arts in Education from Mercy College (and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from New York University). He has taught music in the NYC public schools and at the East Coast Music festival, where he taught chorus, music theory, and improvisation skills to cello and violin students. Craig frequently performs in New York City and has performed at various venues, including Cleopatra’s Needle, Miles Café, The Shrine, Arturo’s and more.