Sheffield Alumna releases debut jazz-infused pop and soul album

As the Summer is Charlotte’s debut album of 8 soulful tracks that was released on October 1st, 2021.

Producing and arranging the tracks from her dining room studio in Birmingham, Charlotte has brought together songs that she has written over the past 4 years.

The album leads the listener through a journey from jazzy songs that talk about social media addiction, bullying and empowerment through to soulful love songs and reflective songs about self-compassion and mental health.

Each track showcases beautiful melodies, insightful lyrics and jazzy, soulful song writing, featuring trumpets, keys and the double bass. 

One of the most notable qualities of this release is how it clearly showcases Charlotte’s versatility. She is able to seamlessly channel a huge range of creative influences and genres, while staying true to the core of her vision.

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https://musomuso.com/reviews/charlotte-champian-new-album-as-the-summer

Listen to As the Summer

Charlotte graduated with a BA in Music and Chinese in 2016 and explains to us how her experience at Sheffield prepared her for a career as a professional musician. 

Why did you want to study music? 

I wanted to share my music with people. I really love the connection that music makes with an audience and music has always felt like a gift that I wanted to share.

Why did you choose to study at the University of Sheffield?

TUOS was one of the only places that offered my dream combination of subjects. After graduation I studied a masters in Chinese English Translation and Interpreting and became a part-time translator and part-time piano and singing teacher.

I loved that Sheffield was a stones throw away from the Peak District and how peaceful and open it felt as a city.

What did you enjoy most about your course at Sheffield? 

I enjoyed how inviting and friendly the staff at the Music Department were. They were very supportive to me as I went through spinal surgery before my final year of study.

My music degree gave me a solid foundation for working as a professional musician and courses such as music business helped me to learn practical skills that I have taken forward into my self-employed work.

How did Sheffield help you with your career? 

Studying music at TUOS developed and expanded my confidence and experience in music composition.

My vocal and piano skills were also fostered and grown and continue to be the solid foundation for my work as a professional musician.

I also made friends with a wonderful group of musicians who contribute to my music recordings and play with me in my band.

What advice would you give any prospective music student?

My advice to anyone graduating from music now would be to set up your own professional website and talk to other musicians to learn from their experiences in work after university.

In my time at university I was part of the Chamber Choir and enjoyed singing stunning repertoire with an amazingly talented bunch of singers. It's amazing seeing them all now going into professional performance and music careers!

Charlotte is also a disability advocate. Learn more about her story: 

Music and my curvy spine - Scoliosis Association UK