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

Performing over 250 dates a year as a sideman and leader, Elijah is one of the most in-demand guitarists in Philadelphia. Noted for his versatility, he comfortably moves between Jazz, R&B, Gospel, Folk, Pop and Rock, bringing his highly original voice to any musical scenario he finds himself in. In addition to performing in and around the Philadelphia area, Elijah tours throughout the year, most recently with Chelsea Reed and the Fairweather Band around the East Coast and Midwest United States. He has performed at venues such as the Kimmel Center, Kennedy Center, Blues Alley, The Newport Jazz Festival, The MAD Jazz Festival, and Smalls Jazz Club in New York City. 

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 with many notable musicians including Terell Stafford, Byron Landham, Pat Bianchi, Jumanne Smith, Eric Wortham, Justin Faulkner, Warren Wolf, Mark Whitfield, 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.” He is a member of the original music collective known as Glera, led by veteran drummer Wayne Smith Jr., which combines elements of avant-garde jazz, folk, and rock through original compositions. Glera will share their debut release in 2024. 

In addition to his performance schedule, 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.