CHARLES AUSTIN

Charles Austin, legendary saxophonist, has been a leading man in the contemporary jazz scene for the last sixty-seven years. During his teenage years, the promising musician toured with BB King and appeared on several variety shows, including but not limited to, the very popular Ed Sullivan Show, where his quartet won for best musical performance. After teaching music at Tennessee State University, Charles returned to his hometown of Miami FL, and began his solo career, playing instruments such as the flute, clarinet, English horn, the oboe and of course, the saxophone, in the bustling scene of the Overtown jazz clubs. During one particular gig, Charles was discovered by Joe Gallivan, who invited him to play as the featured sax soloist with the Modern Jazz Orchestra at the legendary Hampton House- the Mecca for Black Entertainers in the 60’s. It was at the Hampton House where the eighteen-piece band would later perform read more...