Sarah Elizabeth Charles is a CMSS alum and a vocalist/composer/teaching artist based in Brooklyn, NY. She has worked and studied with artists such as Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah, George Cables, Geri Allen and Sheila Jordan and has released four critically acclaimed albums with her band between 2012 and today. As the active vocalist in a number of bands (including Ajoyo, duo with Jarrett Cherner, Jesse Fischer and Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah), Charles has performed at many venues throughout her career including The White House, Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, Rose Theatre with Jazz at Lincoln Center and many more. She is also a Teaching Artist through Carnegie Hall, Decoda and as an adjunct professor at The New School.

On October 4th, 2025, Sarah returns to CMSS and Robyn Newhouse Hall to celebrate the release of her fifth album, Dawn, which chronicles her experience becoming a mother. In addition to performing the music from this song cycle (which includes voice, piano, bass, drums, violin and cello), this evening will include the in person premiere of Charles’ two mini documentaries and a post concert Reflective Talk Back.

We hope that you can join us for this special event!

“…both technically brilliant and emotionally bold…”
(Revive Music)

“…Genre of one…Charles…is fully in control, and figures to be for a very long time.”
– Joe Tangari (DownBeat)

“Impeccable technical prowess providing the base for boldly uninhibited expression, all driving sharply shaped political and cultural views: It’s a combination as rare as it is thrilling, bringing to mind Betty Carter and Abbey Lincoln and…the neo-soul-meets-jazz fervor of Sarah Elizabeth Charles.”
– Christopher Loudon (JazzTimes)

5:30pm: Doors open
6:00pm: Concert begins
7:00pm: Reception and Talk Back

Please note: We are not issuing physical tickets for this event. Once you purchase your ticket(s) your name will be on our guest list at the door.