Elijah Cole is a guitarist, pianist, and composer based in Philadelphia.

Elijah is one of the most in-demand musicians in Philadelphia, both in live performance and recording contexts. Noted for his versatility, he comfortably moves between genres including Jazz, R&B, Gospel, Folk, Pop and Bluegrass, bringing his original and compelling voice to any musical scenario he finds himself in. In addition to performing in and around the Philadelphia area, Elijah tours throughout the year, performing across the United States and Europe. He has appeared at venues including the Kimmel Center, Kennedy Center, Blues Alley, Ronnie Scott’s, Sony Hall, The Newport Jazz Festival, the NAMM Show Yamaha Stage, SOUTH, The MAD Jazz Festival, and Dizzy’s Club. 

Elijah recently released his debut album Universe of One, an exploration of solo acoustic guitar music. Drawing from a wide range of influences and genres, the album paints a compelling portrait of one of the most exciting young guitarists on the scene today.

Elijah got his start in the Washington DC area where he grew up, working from the young age of 14 in the city’s vibrant music scene. He was mentored by DC icons Paul Carr and Michael Bowie, who helped nurture his growth and guide his progress throughout his high school years. He moved to Philadelphia at 18 to study at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music, where he earned a performance degree in 3 years. During his time at Temple, he was fortunate to study under guitarists Peter Bernstein and Mike Moreno. 

Elijah maintains a busy schedule as a leader and a sideman. He has performed a wide range of notable musicians including Terell Stafford, Laurin Talese, Jermaine Dolly, Pat Bianchi, Jumanne Smith, Eric Wortham, Justin Faulkner, Byron Landham, Warren Wolf, George “Spanky” McCurdy, Mark Whitfield, Charity, and Dana Hawkins. He is featured extensively on the latest release from Philadelphia bass-legend Mike Boone, “Enjoying the View,” as well as on Chelsea Reed’s 2020 release “Carolina Lullaby.”

In addition to his performance and recording work, Elijah enjoys sharing the gift of music with a wide variety of students. He has over a decade of experience teaching students on both guitar and piano, and maintains a private teaching studio in Philadelphia as well as virtually. He has taught classes for Open Studio Jazz, and recently taught at the California Coast Music Camp alongside many notable instructors including Nina Gerber, Cara Luft and Tim May.