Today we’d like to introduce you to Cory Sterling.
Cory, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Nerd Audio is a small boutique specialising in synthesisers and hardware production tools. We formed under the Midwest Pro Sound and Lighting (America’s oldest DJ shop) umbrella in 2014, after witnessing a resurgence in interest for analog music production.
After studying music at Berklee College of Music in Boston, I was longing for a musical outlet that enabled me more sonic freedom. I moved to NYC and soon became infatuated with modular synthesis and experimental music.
I took over management of the shop in 2017, I am happy to say that interest in these unique instruments is on the rise and we have become Chicago’s go-to for equipment and consultation. Our focus at Nerd Audio is reinforcing the synthesis community through artistic encouragement and and honest expertise.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My time here at the shop has been relatively short in the scope of a 30+ year old business. What started as a vinyl and stereo shop has morphed many times over the decades but we are happy to say that by adjusting with the market we have found new and fun ways to keep the lights on.
The foray into synthesisers and hardware production tools is a wonderful example of how we have adjusted our business to meet the demands of an ever changing musical world.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
We are a small retailer of professional music hardware – modular synthesisers, keyboards, drum machines, audio effects, etc.
Nerd Audio is known as the community’s one-stop-synth-shop. We pride ourselves on our expertise and community focussed efforts. Over the last year we have initiated a series of events designed to make the daunting world of synthesis more approachable to the outsider but more importantly, fun!
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico and was drawn to music at an early age. Fortunate enough to attend public schools with excellent music departments, I was surrounded by like minded kids.
I began gigging professionally at age 15 and soon found myself playing all over the United States. My dedication and love for music propelled me through those awkward teen years.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1613 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657 - Website: nerdaudio.com
- Phone: 773-975-4250
- Email: nerdaudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: @nerdaudio – my personal IG: @redstripedown
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nerdaudio/
Image Credit:
Cory Sterling
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
