Sam Shin

St. Augustine's Sam Shin has quickly gained a reputation for being the sole improvisation-only cello player in the local music scene, a dynamic performer regardless of genre or venue. His chameleon-like style of playing and deep knowledge of music theory enable Shin the freedom to adapt and move into different styles of sound, always with an expression of extreme concentration on his face. His stage presence is quiet yet loud as the bellowing notes that ring from his cello fill the room. In a nutshell, there are very few local performers that Shin has not performed alongside. He seeks to dip his toes into every accessible musical ocean possible.

 

Originally from Olney, Maryland, Shin studied music in college for a short time before embarking on his musical career in a strictly "do-it-yourself" manner. Traveling from California to Missouri and finally settling in St. Augustine, Shin has built a sturdy foundation of musical friends, colleagues, and fans. He often speaks about being deeply inspired by Bela Fleck's bassist Victor Wooten, who experienced a musical transformation through visions of teachings and theories. Audiences can expect a vision-like experience when encountering Shin's live performances. 

 

Like many, Shin moved during the pandemic and now lives and performs in California. If he visits, he will play music, and if that happens, we will post it. 

 

Photographer Lenny Foster took the hero image of Shin playing music to the Atlantic Ocean before he left St. Augustine.