Master Guitarist Larry Coryell in Clinic Crafters Workshop at Birdland July 18

From the audience, a great performance comes across like a seamless miracle. If you could get the performer's commentary on what he does, though, you'd learn that each combines theory, technique and tricks of the trade with his talent in a totally individual way - and that's what students and fans have the opportunity to discover in an intimate series of workshops at Birdland, 315 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036 from 1pm - 3 pm.

As one of the pioneers of jazz-rock - perhaps the pioneer in the ears of some - Larry Coryell deserves a special place in the history books. He brought what amounted to a nearly alien sensibility to jazz electric guitar playing in the 1960s, a hard-edged, cutting tone, phrasing and note-bending that owed as much to blues, rock and even country as it did to earlier, smoother bop influences. Yet as a true eclectic, armed with a brilliant technique, he is comfortable in almost every style, covering almost every base from the most decibel-heavy, distortion-laden electric work to the most delicate, soothing, intricate lines on acoustic guitar.

At a typical workshop, the visiting artist performs for a bit, discusses the theory and technique in his performance, invites a member of the audience to play and offers feedback and help with style and execution. Throughout, he answers questions from workshop participants. Because of the access and interchange available in the sessions, students “have a treasure in this series," says critic Gary Giddins. Since space is limited to 50 people, pre-registration is advised. Anyone can receive a schedule of upcoming workshops by calling (212) 714-7722.