Charlie Bertini
It was at age nine that Charlie Bertini started trumpet lessons in his hometown of Cortland, NY. Being active in marching band, concert band, orchestra, and etcetera, he knew that he wanted to do what he loved professionally. At age 19 he joined the Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros Circus and toured for six years as first trumpeter and later as the musical director. Then, Charlie played, for four years, at Circus World Theme park as first trumpeter and conductor; therefore, he prepared himself for a year’s tour as musical director for the Ringling Bros & Bailey Circus. As a recording artist, Charlie has four solo albums and two Christmas albums. He is also the executive director of the annual AppleJazz Festival.
He has proven himself to be one of the most versatile and respected trumpeters in the industry. After moving out of town, many have known him to be the top-call first trumpeter in Orlando. Nowadays, Charlie Bertini is a music instructor. As a teacher he has led workshops at universities and high schools, and he instructs occasionally at the University of Central Florida and Seminole Community College. Still based in Orlando, Charlie enjoys a mixture of musical surroundings and continues to be one of the most resourceful and appreciated trumpeters in the industry.
"You won't believe your ears." -- Audio Fidelity
photo by Tom Haskell