The Musicians
Charles Matthiessen (Trumpet)
Member of the JSO: Since 1979
Education: Bachelor of Music and Master of Music, Northwestern University
Why the trumpet? Charlie’s father was a local band director. In the second grade, Charlie started on trombone. Two years later, he played trumpet and cornet. His father played the cornet and his brother played the trumpet.
Other hats worn: Charlie also serves as an assistant librarian for the orchestra.
Accomplishments: Charlie has performed with various orchestras across the Southeast, including the Atlanta Symphony, North Carolina Symphony and the Savannah Symphony.
Close affiliation: Charlie spent 18 summers in the North Carolina mountains performing with the Brevard Music Center Orchestra, where he was principal trumpet. From 1984 to 2001 he was on the faculty at Brevard and was there for four years as a high school and college student.
Solo appearances: Charlie was featured in the Hummel Trumpet Concerto with the JSO.
Favorite composer: Mahler: “Good brass writing.”
Favorite moment with the Jacksonville Symphony: Being hired by Willis Page. “The first professional gig is always a happy moment.”
Hobbies and leisure: Boating, fishing, scuba diving. Charlie is also a motorcycle enthusiast.
Favorite places: Skiing in the Rockies, Scuba diving in the Bahamas and spending summers in the North Carolina Mountains.
Favorite things about Jacksonville: Lots of boating and water activities, and a healthy business climate, which is good for the growth of the orchestra.
Social