Spafford have confirmed that Cory Schechtman will serve as their new keyboardist. Schechtman, who subbed for Spafford keyboardist Andrew “Red” Johnson four times this fall, is best known as the keyboardist and saxophonist in The New Motif.

A note from Schechtman reads:

Hey Spafford Family,
First, we would like to thank everyone for joining us in support of our brother Red. We can’t begin to express the gratitude and appreciation for all of the moments, memories, and connections we have all shared together these past 11 years. It is a joy knowing he has touched so many lives and we will always cherish the music we created together.
We would never look to replace Red musically and personally as those things are irreplaceable; rather, we look forward to allowing someone to join in to what we have created and imprint a new and unique voice in the musical conversation we all cherish so much.
Without further ado, we would like to welcome Cory Schechtman as the newest permanent member of Spafford. Cory joined us to fill in for 4 shows back in September and after careful thought and consideration he was the only logical player to continue our journey with.
Before the first note was ever played together there was an undeniable connection with Cory and that chemistry was met equally on stage in the 4 shows we played together in September. Cory’s ability to step in and provide not only what the songs require, but also the patience and thought that heavy improvisation demands, is something we respect greatly. He is a master of his craft who has spent a lifetime dedicated to its pursuit and we know without a doubt that Cory has the dedication and talent to take Spafford to the next level.
We couldn’t be more excited for what the future holds and we look forward to discovering the next chapter together. Please join us together in welcoming him to the Spafford Family.
Here’s a few words from Cory:
Hi everyone, Cory here.
I know the news about Red has hit a lot of people hard — I’m a fan, too. I am honored and humbled with the responsibility of helping to bring Spafford’s music through the next chapter.
Without knowing it, I’ve been preparing for this my entire life. I made the decision in my childhood to dedicate my life to improvisational music. It’s a living thing that even science cant explain. It’s the transformative power of improvisation that moves me the most.
My musical personality is influenced by Miles Davis, Frank Zappa, John Medeski, Jeff Beck, Weather Report, GD and so much more.
As a lot of you know I played 4 shows with Spafford back in September when Red needed a sub. I was, quite frankly, astonished at how great it went – on and off stage. Brian, Jordan, Nick and Red are terrific humans. When I got the call that Red was walking away and the band had chosen me, I went right to the shed and have been there since working my ass off.
While my thoughts are with Red and his family, I’m also psyched to be joining the Spafford family and meeting many of you.
Let’s jam.
Cory

Spafford will perform in Tempe, AZ on December 30 and 31.