Charles was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and the family moved to Los Angeles, where he showed an early talent for music. He studied piano with Aube Tzerko of Los Angeles and earned a master’s degree in music history from the UC Berkeley. In 1965, Charles moved to Oregon, where he served on the music faculties of the University of Oregon, Lewis & Clark College, and ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó, teaching piano, music history, theory, composition and aesthetics. He served as director of the applied music program at ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó from 1978 to 1982.
Charles had a love for the finer things in life, and while remembered for his positive attitude and kindness, had a cantankerous stubborn streak. He performed extensively as a concert pianist and accompanist, principally on the West Coast and Japan. He became executive director of Portland’s Community Music Center, and served on the board of trustees of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts; he was its vice president and chaired for the West Coast and Northwest regional chapters. He also served on grants review panels for the National Endowment for the Arts and local and state arts commissions.