Performer

Charlie Nelson's musical journey began with the tuba at the age of 10. Coming from Jacksonville, Florida, Charlie's orchestral career began to flourish during his freshman year of high school where his talent earned him the Principal Tuba position of the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra. He held this position for the rest of high school, which was a pivotal moment that established the foundation of his orchestral pursuits. At Charlies prestigious high school, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, Charlie had the opportunity to travel and perform with the schools Wind Symphony and Jazz ensemble 1 to the Music for All band conference, CBDNA conference, National Wind band Festival at Carnegie hall, Jazz education Network conference, and the award of two national Downbeat Magazine awards, all with mentorship from esteemed band directors such as Ted Shistle, Don Zentz, and Kenneth Williams; Charlie has studied privately with James Jenkins of the Jacksonville Symphony, Bernard Flythe, Dr. Matt Hightower, Dr. Paul Weikle, and Jim Daniel. Charlie's musical journey was strengthened by a wealth of knowledge and guidance.

Charlie’s excellence gained attention, leading to a string of notable achievements with distinguished ensembles such as the NAFME Symphonic Orchestra, and the FMEA Concert and Symphonic Bands and Orchestras. In Charlie's Senior year, he won his high school concerto competition where he played the Ralph Vaughan Williams Concerto for Bass Tuba alongside the Douglas Anderson Symphony Orchestra, while also being considered as an alternate musician for the National Youth Orchestra.

Charlie was admitted to Florida State University in 2023 where he studies with Dr. Matt Hightower, and has played with the University Philharmonia orchestra and the University Wind Orchestra. This commitment to musical excellence only manifested, and in Charlie's first year he continued to earn accolades such as being named a semifinalist in the Leonard Falcone Tuba Euphonium Solo Competition, as well as winning the principal tuba fellowship with the National Symphony Orchestra Summer music Institute.

Throughout his musical endeavors, Charlie's dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians remained unwavered. Through his participation in the Mentorship program at Douglas Anderson and his private studio, Charlie instills his knowledge and passion, leaving a lasting mark on aspiring musicians. Charlie continues to carve his path in the world of tuba performance, captivating audiences and fellow musicians alike with his unparalleled persistence, talent, and unwavering determination.

Hear Charlie.....