Charlie Boushley is a gifted 13-year-old pianist and organist from Boise, Idaho whose abilities have already set him apart in the classical music world.
Charlie's passion for music began to flourish under the guidance of amazing teachers. His very first piano lessons started with Elaine Ferguson in November 2019, where she laid a strong foundation for his musical growth. He later began his current piano journey with Suzanne Clive in April 2021, further refining his talent and skills. Eager to expand his musical horizons, Charlie delved into the world of the organ in August 2023, studying with Ryan Dye and Harold Stuart. This pursuit of excellence culminated in Charlie earning his Colleague Certification (CAGO) from the American Guild of Organists (AGO), a remarkable achievement for someone so young. His impressive performances on renowned instruments like the Spreckels Organ in San Diego and the Tabernacle Organ in Salt Lake City showcase his dedication and talent.
Charlie's dedication and hard work have earned him a stunning array of accolades in festivals and competitions. He has consistently excelled in Boise music festivals, earning superior ratings year after year. His achievements at Musicians West and the Boise Bach Festival are particularly noteworthy, securing first place in both piano and organ categories—an extraordinary feat. His exceptional performances at the Idaho State MTNA Piano Competition in both 2023 and 2024 garnered him top honors, taking first place in the state for two consecutive years.
In addition to his competitive success, Charlie has demonstrated a profound mastery of challenging pieces from composers such as Bach, Beethoven, Scarlatti, Chopin, Prokofiev, and Saint-Saëns. His technical proficiency and musicality have been recognized at the TVMTA Sonatina Competition and the TVMTA Certificate of Achievement, where he consistently earned top placements.
Adding to his diverse skill set, Charlie is studying stenography and court reporting. He is well on his way to mastering the intricate skill of stenography, demonstrating the same dedication and excellence that characterize his musical endeavors.
Beyond music and academics, Charlie excels in drone racing, having taken first place in multiple MultiGP races. He also flies cinematic drones for Idaho Drift, combining his technical expertise with a creative eye to capture stunning aerial footage.
As Charlie continues to develop his skills and expand his horizons, he is poised to become a prominent figure in the worlds of classical music, stenography, and drone cinematography. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and God given talent, even at a young age.