In-Person

Playing in the Spirit: A Masterclass with Cory Henry

Cory Henry

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Free
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  • General Public

Join us on Tuesday,  April 21 at 7 p.m. for an evening of spirited music making with Gospel virtuoso Cory Henry. The marquee event of a two day residency at the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, this masterclass will include engagement with student compositions, discussion about Cory Henry’s life, work, and church, and a time of collective music making anchored by the members of a New Haven based community choir who will join Henry in song. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place at Immanuel Baptist Church (1324 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511) and will be livestreamed.

Advance registration for tickets is required and seating is limited. Click here to register.

Sponsored by the Institute of Sacred Music’s Interdisciplinary Program in Music and the Black Church.

Livestream link

Cory Henry's residency with the ISM will also feature a special chapel service and symposium at Sterling Divinity Quadrangle on April 22. View details.

Contact: Eric Donnelly (eric.donnelly@yale.edu)

Cory Henry plays Amazing Grace

Bio:

GRAMMY-Winning artist Cory Henry has made a significant mark in the music industry, recently clinching the award for Best Roots Gospel Album in 2025 for his deeply personal project, Church. This album features contributions from his family, including his grandmother, reflecting the rich musical heritage that has shaped his artistry and resonated with audiences worldwide. Along with his Grammy-winning album, PBS aired a documentary on his life and the making of Church, providing an intimate look at his journey and creative process.

Henry’s impressive accolades also include a GRAMMY win for his collaboration with the acclaimed Spanish artist Rosalía in 2023, as well as a GRAMMY for his contributions to Kanye West’s groundbreaking album, Donda. His versatility as a musician has led him to work with a diverse array of artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Imagine Dragons, Kanye West, Stevie Wonder & more.

Originally hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Cory was a key member of the Grammy-winning group Snarky Puppy before launching his solo career in 2018 with his debut album, Art of Love. His sophomore project, Something to Say, was Grammy-nominated for Best Progressive R&B Album in 2022, showcasing his growth as an artist. He followed up with Operation Funk in 2023, and his live album, Live at the Piano, received a nomination in 2024.

In 2024, while touring with the legendary Stevie Wonder, Henry took the opportunity to record a holiday album titled A Wonderful Holiday during his days off, collaborating with members of Wonder’s band. This project showcases his ability to blend his unique style, further highlighting his musical versatility. Additionally, Cory made a memorable appearance as a guest performer with Jon Batiste at Coachella in 2024.

Cory was also featured in the film Saturday Night in 2024 and appeared in the Little Richard documentary, “I Am Everything,” in 2023, further expanding his role in both music and film.

Henry currently leads his own band, The Funk Apostles, captivating audiences with electrifying performances around the world.

Cory Henry’s journey from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to international stages is a testament to his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. As he continues to explore new musical territories and push boundaries, Henry remains an influential figure in contemporary music, and is quickly becoming an icon around the world – inspiring countless fans and fellow musicians alike.