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Workshops

Music Workshops with Charlie Widmer

Connecticut State Troubadour (2026–2029)

 

Charlie Widmer is the 19th Connecticut State Troubadour (2026–2029) and an award-winning singer-songwriter, performer, and music educator offering music workshops throughout Connecticut. As part of his official service as State Troubadour, Charlie leads engaging, accessible workshops that support artistic growth, cultural literacy, and professional development for musicians at all stages.

 

The Connecticut State Troubadour, an honorary position established in 1991, serves as an ambassador of music and song, celebrating Connecticut’s culture, history, and stories through music. Charlie’s workshops reflect this mission by empowering participants with practical skills, creative tools, and real-world insight drawn from an active professional career.

Workshop Offerings

 

Charlie Widmer’s workshops are adaptable for schools, colleges, arts organizations, community groups, and festivals. Sessions can be customized by age, experience level, and time frame.

 

Songwriting Workshops

 

Drawing from his career as an award-winning songwriter with over 100,000+ streams, Charlie leads songwriting workshops that explore:

  • Song structure and lyrical storytelling

  • Melody writing and emotional expression

  • Writing across genres (folk, bluegrass, pop, musical theater)

  • Developing a personal voice as a songwriter

  • Collaborative writing exercises

 

These workshops encourage creativity while offering practical techniques students can apply immediately.

Singing & Vocal Performance Workshops

 

With formal training in classical voice and extensive experience across multiple genres, Charlie offers singing workshops focused on:

 

  • Healthy vocal technique and vocal care

  • Performance confidence and expression

  • Interpreting lyrics and storytelling through song

  • Genre flexibility (classical, musical theater, pop, folk)

 

Workshops are suitable for beginners through advanced singers and emphasize sustainable vocal habits.

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Guitar Group Classes

 

Having played guitar for over 20 years, Charlie leads group guitar workshops designed to build confidence and musicianship, including:

 

  • Basic to intermediate chord vocabulary

  • Rhythm and strumming patterns

  • Accompanying singing with guitar

  • Playing in group settings

 

These classes are accessible, encouraging, and ideal for students looking to use guitar as a creative tool.

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Performance & Stagecraft Workshops

 

Based on years of professional performance at venues including Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall, these workshops focus on:

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  • Stage presence and audience connection

  • Managing performance nerves

  • Preparing for live shows and auditions

  • Communicating emotion and authenticity on stage

 

Participants gain practical strategies to elevate their live performances.

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Music Career & Industry Workshops

 

Designed for older students and emerging professionals, these workshops offer real-world insight into building a sustainable career in music, covering:

 

  • Portfolio careers and multiple income streams

  • Education, teaching, and performance pathways

  • Collaboration and networking

  • Navigating today’s music industry as an independent artist

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Charlie’s experience working with major artists such as Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, and Sarah Brightman, alongside his independent career, provides valuable perspective.

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Led by an Award-Winning Artist & Educator

 

Charlie Widmer holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Western Connecticut State University and has:

 

  • Over 12 years of private teaching experience

  • Taught voice, guitar, and piano to students ages 5–85

  • Extensive background in choral music, opera, musical theater, and contemporary styles

  • Led educational outreach with Salt Marsh Opera and the New Haven Symphony Orchestra

  • Served as a choral adjudicator for the Darien School District

 

His workshops combine professional excellence with an approachable, student-centered teaching style.

Supporting Connecticut’s Creative Community

As Connecticut State Troubadour, Charlie Widmer is committed to supporting artists, students, and communities through education. His workshops aim to:

 

  • Inspire creative confidence

  • Strengthen musical literacy

  • Encourage collaboration and curiosity

  • Provide practical tools for artistic growth

 

Each workshop is designed to leave participants empowered, informed, and motivated to continue their musical journey.

© 2026 Charlie Widmer Music LLC

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