NEW ROLE
Connecticut State Troubadour (2026–2029)
Charlie Widmer has been unanimously selected and appointed as the 19th Connecticut State Troubadour by the Connecticut Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, in partnership with the Connecticut Office of the Arts. His three-year term began on January 1, 2026, and will conclude on December 31, 2028.
The Connecticut State Troubadour is an honorary position, established in 1991, that serves as an ambassador of music and song while promoting cultural literacy across the state. The role exists to celebrate Connecticut’s culture, history, and stories through music, fostering a deeper connection between communities and the arts.
As further defined by the Connecticut Office of the Arts, the State Troubadour is “an ambassador of music and song who promotes cultural literacy. They understand Connecticut’s cultures, history, arts, and stories, champion the art form in their community, and inspire the next generation of singers and songwriters.”
Widmer joins a distinguished legacy of accomplished singer-songwriters who have previously held the position and is a proud resident of Oxford, Connecticut.
Mission as Connecticut State Troubadour
As Connecticut State Troubadour, Charlie Widmer is dedicated to engaging young people, music enthusiasts, educators, and professional artists throughout the state. His work focuses on inspiring the next generation of singers, songwriters, and musicians while increasing access to music education and cultural experiences.
His statewide initiatives include:
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School visits and arts education outreach
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Songwriting masterclasses and workshops
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Performances throughout Connecticut and beyond
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Collaboration with Connecticut artists through writing, recording, and releasing original music
Through these efforts, Widmer seeks to strengthen cultural literacy, celebrate Connecticut’s diverse musical heritage, and elevate the state’s creative community.
Advocacy for Artists and Musicians
An essential part of Widmer’s work as State Troubadour is advocacy for artists and musicians. As the music industry continues to evolve and sustaining a fair living becomes more challenging, he is committed to supporting fellow artists by sharing practical tools, educational resources, and business strategies.
His goal is to help musicians build sustainable careers and transform creative ambition into long-term success through education, mentorship, and community engagement.
Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter
Charlie Widmer is an award-winning singer-songwriter, recognized throughout the Northeastern United States for his expressive vocals and interpretive artistry. He performs both as a solo artist and as a member of the acclaimed bluegrass and modern acoustic quartet, On the Trail.
Career highlights include:
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Over 100,000+ streams of original music
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His song “What Do I Need With Love” reaching #3 on the Top 100 Charts
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International radio rotation on SiriusXM’s Bluegrass Junction and on
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Pop radio rotation in Switzerland and France (Radio TOP, SRF 1, Bugey Radio)
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Multiple awards for vocal performance
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Extensive background vocal work with artists including
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Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Sarah Brightman, and Jared Leto
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Performances at iconic venues such as
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Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall
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Representing Connecticut Through Music
As his career continues to grow nationally and internationally, Widmer remains deeply committed to representing Connecticut’s music, culture, and creative spirit at the highest level.
“Connecticut is the place I know I will call home for the rest of my career. To represent the state as Connecticut State Troubadour is both an honor and a responsibility I do not take lightly. During this three-year term, I will do all that I can to serve my community and work with as many people as possible.”
— Charlie Widmer