Corey Wilkes Concerts

Experience Corey Wilkes

Corey Wilkes is a highly respected trumpeter hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, deeply rooted in the city’s vibrant jazz tradition while simultaneously pushing its boundaries. Born into a musical family – his father, Irvin Wilkes, was a renowned trumpet player – Corey began playing professionally at age 12, quickly gaining recognition for his precocious talent.

Wilkes’ style blends hard bop, post-bop, and elements of funk and R&B, characterized by a distinctive tone and improvisational flair. He’s collaborated extensively with luminaries like Harry Connick Jr., Terence Blanchard, and Wynton Marsalis, appearing on numerous recordings and touring internationally.

A founding member of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra (NOJO), Wilkes has been instrumental in preserving and promoting the city’s musical heritage. He's released several critically acclaimed albums as a leader, including *Beginnings* (2006) and *Drop the Beat* (2017), showcasing his compositional skills alongside his virtuosity. Wilkes also actively mentors young musicians through educational outreach programs, solidifying his position as a pillar of the New Orleans music community and a significant voice in contemporary jazz.