Mr. Charlie has over 10 years of teaching experience and more than 20 years of performing across diverse genres. He has experience teaching privately and in classroom settings, working with elementary to high-school-age students, as well as adults. He believes in establishing a strong foundation through technique and theory, while also encouraging his students to explore their creative instincts and develop their unique musical voices. He began performing at age 14 when he was accepted to Interlochen Arts Academy and played in the Shreveport Symphony when he was 19. After relocating to Los Angeles, he was involved in the contemporary music scene working with composers such as John Luther Adams, Yotam Haber, and Mark Menzies. He studied under Peter Rofe (Los Angeles Phil) and Darek Oles (of Bob Mintzer & Brad Mehldau trio combo).

Education and Accomplishments:

• M.A. in music performance from the California Institute of the Arts
• B.A. in International Studies with a music minor from the University of North Texas
• Performed at the Ojai Music Festival and Tanglewood Music Festival