The sixth of seven children, Charles B. Cardenaz was raised in Susanville, California. Growing up, his family enjoyed musicals such as The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, and West Side Story. “I love performing in front of people,” Charles said. In 2015, Charles starred as Danny Zuko in Grease Lightning. The performance endowed Charles with the confidence to audition for the music program. “My audition to get into the music program was awful—I forgot all the words to my song.” Humbled and unlearned, Charles brazenly established his path by taking private and group vocal lessons and singing in college choirs: “I kept trying.”

Choosing his major had everything to do with what he loved, despite limited knowledge and experience. Charles wants to use his degree in music education to encourage struggling high school students to explore what they really want to do: “Those defining years can make or break a person.” Even if they have virtually no knowledge, they can still start somewhere. It’s important for them “to keep climbing—no matter how many times they fail.” Music and teaching showcase that people can live their dream and be successful.

Years of devotion and constant dedication created Vocal Affinity—a choir forged by individual raw materials that combined create beauty. Vocal Affinity strives to fulfill and exceed the audience’s expectations. The choir acknowledges God’s power, foresight, and teachings. Most pieces and arrangements center around Christ as the perfect example of love, mercy, patience, and forgiveness. Charles’s spiritual connection grows while singing praises to God. “I hope that the world will hear this music and feel God’s love.”