Charles Burns

Charles Burns is a writer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and educator living in Los Angeles. He is on faculty at the California Institute of the Arts, where he teaches music theory, and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in composition at UCLA.

Articles By This Author

Charles Burns - December 16, 2025

The launch concert at Monk Space revealed an ensemble that makes complexity feel human.

Charles Burns - December 2, 2025

The American composer and singer delivers a miniature opera that audaciously synthesizes hyperpop, choral power, and capitalist critique.

Charles Burns - November 25, 2025

Based on composer Christopher Stark’s travels in the American West during 2020, Fire Ecologies is surprisingly gentle in its message.

Charles Burns - November 18, 2025

The Green Umbrella concert showcased inspired new works by Caribbean and Latin American artists.

Charles Burns - November 10, 2025

The pianist combined visuals and electronics to bring a musical archipelago to life.

Charles Burns - October 6, 2025

John Holiday, Lara Downes, and LACO performed at Cicada’s Art Deco Ballroom on Oct. 4.

Charles Burns - October 6, 2025

“Nick Norton & Cristina Lord: FRIENDS” set a reflective and purposeful tone for the season.

Charles Burns - September 30, 2025

The conductor, who will move to New York next year, led the LA Phil in a program of works by Reid and Strauss.

Charles Burns - September 20, 2025

Composer and pianist Thomas Kotcheff presented a concert and album release for his new work, Between Systems, on Sept. 16.

Charles Burns - July 21, 2025

The composer’s innovative and collaborative style is highlighted during a concert at Thayer Hall, marking the one-year anniversary of her passing.