Sean Cookus is an adjunct professor of saxophone at Shepherd University, where he teaches applied saxophone, directs the Saxophone
Quartet, and teaches Woodwind Techniques I. A graduate of Shepherd University with a degree in Music Education, Cookus brings more than 30 years of experience as a music educator, professional saxophonist, and multi-instrumentalist to the School of Music.
An active performer throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, Cookus has performed in a wide variety of musical settings spanning jazz, classical, commercial, and contemporary music. Throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to perform with distinguished musicians including Kenny Werner, Conrad Herwig, Walt Weiskopf, Juanita Williams, and the late Claudio Roditi, among others. His professional experience as a saxophonist and woodwind player informs his teaching and allows him to bring practical, real-world performance experience into the studio.
Cookus has more than three decades of experience in music education, teaching students from the beginning instrumental level through the university level. His background includes elementary and middle school instrumental music, band instruction, private teaching, ensemble direction, and collegiate applied instruction. At Shepherd, his teaching emphasizes strong fundamentals, tone production, technique, musicianship, stylistic versatility, and the study of both classical and contemporary saxophone repertoire. He encourages students to develop not only as saxophonists, but as complete musicians capable of performing and working in a variety of musical environments.
Beyond the classroom and concert stage, Cookus maintains an active career in the creative arts as a music producer, composer, photographer, and podcast creator. He is the owner of Sean Cookus Creative Media, LLC, where his work brings together music, audio production, photography, and other forms of digital media. These creative pursuits complement his work as an educator and reflect his belief in the importance of versatility, creativity, and adaptability for today’s working musician.
Cookus resides in Martinsburg, West Virginia, with his wife, Tiffany, a nurse manager at Jefferson Medical Center. They have two adult children. He is active at Vanville Church of Christ, where he serves in leadership and music ministry. His commitment to music, education, faith, and community service continues to shape his work as both an educator and musician.