Tyler Cooney is a Brisbane-based guitarist, composer, and educator who loves to share his passion for music. He leads and co-leads a few of his own projects, like Monsterra and Headland, and also enjoys performing as a solo jazz artist. Tyler plays in a number of other ensembles, including Kerbside Collection and Mosspaw, and has had the chance to tour Australia and New Zealand, as well as share the stage with such names as Will Vinson, Julien Wilson, James Sandon, and Steve Newcomb.
Recently, he hit the road for a tour celebrating his latest album, “Modern Ideal,” a guitar trio collection filled with original jazz tunes featuring Tim Firth on drums and Nick Quigley on double bass.
When he’s not performing, Tyler teaches at the Jazz Music Institute and Griffith Conservatorium, and he’s excited to offer private lessons from his studio in Bardon, Brisbane.
Testimonials
/ / Mike Nock / /
Guitarist Tyler Cooney leads an exceptional group, with drummer Tim Firth and bassist Nick Quigley on this new recording, featuring a program of attractive contemporary originals. This is well recorded, thoughtful modern jazz, played by a trio of likeminded musicians. There’s lots to like on this recently released cd, so kick off your shoes, relax and enjoy the music!
/ / Ben Hauptmann / /
Tyler's latest album is a great listen, the recording sounds fantastic and the playing by Tyler, Nick and Tim is really dynamic and full of energy! five stars ⭐️
/ / Mark Isaacs / /
I’m lucky to have worked with (and been related to) some truly distinguished exponents from the world of jazz guitar. Now, hearing the music of young Australian Tyler Cooney, I’m reminded its future must be in safe hands.
/ / Steve Newcomb / /
Cooney approaches his writing and improvisations with fantastic attention to detail. It is refreshing to hear a new voice emerge among the scene of guitarists in the country. His sound draws together elements of the many established and recently emerging players he has been paying close attention to. This brings a depth to his approach and allows him to really excite the ensembles he plays with - evidenced on this fine recording with some of Australia's best. Cooney has penned an impressive debut of tunes here, and his soloing keeps you engaged the whole way though. An album that is beautifully recorded!
/ / JC Stylles / /
“Modern Ideal” by guitarist Tyler Clooney landed in my lap unexpectedly, and what a refreshing take on the Jazz Guitar Trio it is indeed!
After spending nearly 20 years in New York City myself, performing, recording and running Jazz Clubs, it’s fair to say not only have I heard a lot of music, but also a lot of guitarists over the years. Tyler’s playing caught me by surprise with how refreshing he sounded-not just with his idea’s, but his touch, tone and taste were all on display. One minute he is sharing a gentle tone poem, and then he breaks through with an angular statement that completely takes you off guard. But what also impresses me is that when it came to feel, his sense of swing was right in the pocket when the moment arrived, and lastly, everything he plays is backed up by heart, including his creative writing.
The support offered by both Nick Quigley on Bass, and Tim Firth on Drums shows a rare sympatico with Tyler that is usually only achieved by most small groups via the equation of many gigs- on many stages- over time. This is an album that both player and pure listener alike can both share and devour for their own self indulgent reasons, and feel fulfilled with every listen! Well done-I want more!