About
Charles D. Norris
Charles D. Norris, born in 1997, is a prolific composer and performer who has been gaining acclaim for his remarkable contributions to the world of music. His compositions are known for their range from grand and brassy fanfare to introspective and emotionally resonant pieces that explore the depths of human experience.
Charles' compositions draw inspiration from American folk music, minimalism, and contemporary classical styles, often echoing the iconic sounds of Aaron Copland. With a global perspective, Charles Norris has solidified his position as an internationally recognized composer. His music often delves into themes inspired by the grandeur of the natural world, the mysteries of water, and the vast expanse of the cosmos.
In 2021, Charles achieved a significant breakthrough by winning the Charles B. Olson Composition Competition, an honor granted by Jerry Luckhardt, the conductor and director of the Encore Wind Ensemble. This marked the beginning of Charles’ accolades, including the third prize in the Markers and Pens International Composition Prize and a runner-up position in the competitive Arizona Flute Society composition contest. He further cemented his reputation by winning the Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra Call for Scores under conductor Todd Craven.
Charles' music has graced concert halls and stages across the United States, captivating audiences and musicians alike with its innovative and creative style. His collaborations extend to a multitude of distinguished institutions, including the Encore Wind Ensemble, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, the Red Clay Sax Quartet, the Indiana Wind Symphony, the University of North Carolina Greensboro, and Brevard College, among many others.
Charles holds a Bachelor's degree in music education from Oklahoma State University, where he achieved the distinction of organizing the first-ever composition recital at the Greenwood School of Music in 2020. During this time, Charles studied flute performance with Virginia Broffit-Kunzer and Timothy Hagen. Continuing his education, Norris earned a Master's degree in music composition from the University of North Carolina Greensboro where he studied with Mark Engebretson and Alejandro Rutty.
Currently residing in North Carolina, Charles Norris contributes his expertise to The University of North Carolina Greensboro School of Music. He specializes in teaching electronic music classes and making music with computers. Amidst his professional commitments, Charles cherishes moments of serenity with his partner and their dog. In these quiet interludes, he finds the inspiration to continue composing and shaping the sound of the musical landscape.
Charles is an Alumnus of Alpha Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma and currently teaches electronic music at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
