About Charlie Arbelaez
A multifaceted force in modern jazz, Charlie Arbelaez was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He began playing alto saxophone at the age of ten and by thirteen was already performing every Sunday at church—an experience that sparked his lifelong passion for music and performance. During his formative years in South Florida, Charlie shared the stage with jazz luminaries such as Arturo Sandoval, Ira Sullivan, and Nestor Torres. Upon graduating from South Plantation High School, he was honored with the top scholarship award from the Gold Coast Jazz Society.
After briefly attending Florida International University on a full scholarship for Jazz Studies, Charlie auditioned for the United States Marine Corps Band in 2010. As a Marine musician stationed at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (2011–2014), Sergeant Arbelaez performed across the nation for hundreds of thousands, representing the Marine Corps at high-profile events while conducting masterclasses and clinics at schools and universities nationwide.
In 2015, Charlie released his self-titled debut album, featuring Gilbert Castellanos, Matt Hall, Jason Shattil, Danny Weller, and Willie Jones III.
He then relocated to New York to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Studies (Magna Cum Laude) at SUNY Purchase College in under two years. During this time, he studied with masters such as Ralph Lalama, Gary Smulyan, David Hazeltine, Jon Faddis, Todd Coolman, Kenny Washington, Charles Blenzig, and Pete Malinverni.
In 2017, Charlie performed with the Jazz @ The Jacobs Jazz Orchestra for its debut concert in San Diego, and the following year, he returned to the city to establish a vibrant musical presence. He founded and hosted the Jazz Botanika Jam Session—a cornerstone of the North Park jazz scene—and in 2020, was nominated for “Best Jazz Artist” by the San Diego Music Awards. That same year, he served as Director of Music for Queen Bee’s Arts and Cultural Center, where he curated performances and community programming for over a year.
As both performer and collaborator in San Diego, Charlie has appeared alongside Mundell Lowe, Marshall Hawkins, Gilbert Castellanos, Christopher Hollyday, Mike Wofford, Holly Hofmann, and Irving Flores, among others.
A dedicated educator, he has served as Professor of Saxophone at Palomar College and instructor at The Young Lions Jazz Conservatory, mentoring the next generation of improvisers. He also maintains a thriving private studio and continues to teach internationally. His commitment to education led him to earn a Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from San Diego State University.
Now based in San Diego, Charlie maintains a balanced career as an in-demand international performer, recording artist, and educator, continuing to bring his signature energy, artistry, and passion to audiences around the world.
To keep up with future dates and recordings, please visit www.charliearbelaez.com and subscribe!