Charles D. Norris (b. 1997) is a highly acclaimed composer and performer whose music has been lauded for its exhaustingly imaginative qualities and compelling musical narrative. With a distinguished academic background, Mr. Norris earned degrees from Oklahoma State University (BM) and The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (MM), where he studied under esteemed mentors including Virginia Broffit-Kunzer, Timothy Hagan, Mark Engebretson, and Alejandro Rutty.
Charles’ compositions have been performed across the United States, captivating audiences and earning recognition from prestigious ensembles such as the Encore Wind Ensemble, The University of Central Oklahoma, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and the Red Clay Saxophone Quartet, among numerous others. In 2021, Charles emerged as the distinguished winner of the Charles B. Olson Composition Contest in Minneapolis, MN, under director Dr. Jerry Luckhardt. Furthermore, his exceptional talents garnered him the distinction of being named a finalist in the Arizona Flute Society composition competition. additionally, Charles’ was given 3rd prize in the esteemed 2023 MAP International Competition and was named the winner of the Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra Call for Scores.
Aside from composing, Charles enjoys writing stories, watching movies, and playing with his dog.