Professional Affiliations
Education
L. Elaine Charles, director and owner of H. Charles Center for the Arts (HCCA), has been active in Houston’s fine arts scene for more than 20 years. L. Elaine Charles has been responsible for the creation and success of many projects throughout the City of Houston, such as programs and various activities in Houston Independent School District (HISD) schools, parochial schools, area churches, and community centers. L. Elaine Charles holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Texas Southern University (Cum Laude) and has completed graduate work at Texas Southern University, University of Houston, and Rice University.
L. Elaine Charles was among the few who was accepted for private studio vocal instruction by the late Elena Nikolaidi, or "Niki" to her acquaintances. She studied for many years under Niki and owes the dramatic quality of her performances to Niki.
Performance Experience
- Performed with Theatre Under the Stars (Soprano, Musician, Actor)
- Lead solo singer in Broadway musicals such as Cabin in the Sky alongside big names such as Yolanda Adams and Debbie Allen. (Cabin in the Sky was later purchased and produced on Broadway in New York)
- Performed with conductor Andre Previn in a 60-piano extravaganza
- Performed a piano/vocal cross-country tour concluding in Canada
- Performed around the country representing the Catholic Diocese of Galveston-Houston featuring the Catholic Inner City Choir
- Soprano in the Archdiocesan Festival Choir
- Soprano in Born to Die, a Christmas Cantata by the late Glenn Edward Burleigh
- Soprano in Barbara Johnson Tucker’s “A Chosen Few” choir
- Soprano, Office of Worship, Galveston-Houston Archdiocesan Choir
- Musician, The Houston Lyrics Chorus
- Director/Musician – Children's Choir, St. Paul's Catholic Church
- Soprano, Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
- other performances too many to name
Other Professional Experience
- Developed the music curriculum for Houston Independent School District (HISD) secondary schools, and also for Mt. Carmel High School
- HISD music teacher (all levels) for many years
- Nationally Certified Music Teacher (NCTM)--Certification is achieved through the Music Teachers National Association Certification Board and indicates an accomplished professional. MTNA certification is a statement of professionalism and a commitment to excellence.
