Keith L. Cooper is clearly an amazing talent. His unique style of ministry tied with his intricate acoustic guitar performance has audiences captivated worldwide. The Dallas Morning News hails, “Able to pick with blistering speed, laying down layers of sound with his simple six-string, the Dallas-based Mr. Cooper can keep up with anyone”. Keith has been touring extensively throughout North America, Canada, Russia, and South America sharing fresh new arrangements of familiar melodies as well as the passion for his own compositions.
Biography
“It all started when I gave my life to Christ”, says Cooper, now 30. “I was very young when I decided to spend my life pursuing the guitar as an art. In my early 20s I truly realized that I should be using my craft as a vehicle to share what I believe to be the greatest thing one can have; Jesus Christ.”
After studying with Bob Aslanian (teacher of the incredible Al DiMeola) and Tal Farlow, both legendary jazz guitarists in the New York metropolitan area, Keith went on to study classical composition at Belmont University in Nashville, TN. It was here that Keith received degrees in classical composition and theory. “Growing up in New Jersey afforded me some of the best guitar instructors in the country. I felt called to the instrument and just practiced hours a day devoting all of my time and effort to mastering the guitar. Having those opportunities really gave me great insight.”
Seeing Keith live is unforgettable. His use of alternate guitar techniques blended with showmanship and style leave the audience breathless. Playing the guitar like a piano, creating drum grooves on the body of the guitar while sounding melodies and harmonies makes one think they are hearing an entire orchestra. But it’s when he shares his heart that makes one realize it’s not just about a simple six string to him. Keith tells stories of his upbringing; stories of challenge, difficulty with health issues, joys and sorrows. It is here the true reason why Keith plays comes out. “Music makes the heart fertile” says Cooper. “Music has a way of opening somebody’s heart so I can share with them what has made a difference in my life. I believe that to be God”. At each performance Keith remarkably seems to make a point of sharing his faith.
Whether it’s a blistering guitar solo or a melody of his faith, Keith just seems to be able to get you to feel the music and open your heart to the message that is so needed in our world, a message of hope, encouragement and truth. For some it is just playing the guitar, but, for Keith it is the opportunity of a lifetime- to share his soul and the ever changing power of God.
