Charlotte Ouellette | Folk-Pop Artist | Western MA

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CHARLOTTE OUELLETTE

Singer-Songwriter & Music Educator

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available sept. 5th

Described by audiences as powerful, yet comforting and compelling --- Charlotte Ouellette's songs tell stories of emotional longing and a perpetual search for stability.

Her sound is an eclectic blend of folk, country, soft rock, and early 2000s pop.

Click for Full Bio

15 days… here’s a clip from track 2 (not 3 - lol oops sorry I made this reel before I had my coffee)

#singersongwriter #singersongwriters #musicpromo #newalbumcoming #albumrelease #newmusicrelease #indiefolkrock #softrock

15 days… here’s a clip from track 2 (not 3 - lol oops sorry I made this reel before I had my coffee)

#singersongwriter #singersongwriters #musicpromo #newalbumcoming #albumrelease #newmusicrelease #indiefolkrock #softrock

sneak peak at track 11! extremely excited about this one and stoked about how it came together. huge thanks to good friend and @scitechband alum @jtmusic1092 for the enthralling trumpet tracks

“All I Really Need” is out on Sept. 5th. Pre-save link in bio

#newenglandmusic #musicpromo #singersongwriters #singersongwritersofinstagram #albumrelease #musicpromotion #alternative #altrockmusic

sneak peak at track 11! extremely excited about this one and stoked about how it came together. huge thanks to good friend and @scitechband alum @jtmusic1092 for the enthralling trumpet tracks

“All I Really Need” is out on Sept. 5th. Pre-save link in bio

#newenglandmusic #musicpromo #singersongwriters #singersongwritersofinstagram #albumrelease #musicpromotion #alternative #altrockmusic

Big thanks to @jives.coffee.lounge for giving me such a warm welcome in Colorado Springs last Sunday and much gratitude to Alberto for the photos!

#oldcoloradocity #coffeelounge #coffeeshopmusic #coloradomusic #singersongwritersofig

Big thanks to @jives.coffee.lounge for giving me such a warm welcome in Colorado Springs last Sunday and much gratitude to Alberto for the photos!

#oldcoloradocity #coffeelounge #coffeeshopmusic #coloradomusic #singersongwritersofig

Next show— this Saturday, August 16th @antimonybrewing in Lenox, MA at 7pm. See you there

Posting a second clip from this performance at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Sturbridge a few weeks ago because 1) it’s fun sharing music that you love with people who also love that music, and 2) similarly yesterday morning I was sweating my brains out on the manitou incline here in Colorado while some girl in front of me was definitely singing this song to herself to stay motivated

“All I Really Need” comes out three weeks from tomorrow. Pre-save link in bio.

#newenglandmusic #caroleking #whereyouleadiwillfollow #singersongwriter #coversong_id #acousticcovers #gilmoregirlsquotes #coversongs #ctlivemusic #tvnostalgia

Next show— this Saturday, August 16th @antimonybrewing in Lenox, MA at 7pm. See you there

Posting a second clip from this performance at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Sturbridge a few weeks ago because 1) it’s fun sharing music that you love with people who also love that music, and 2) similarly yesterday morning I was sweating my brains out on the manitou incline here in Colorado while some girl in front of me was definitely singing this song to herself to stay motivated

“All I Really Need” comes out three weeks from tomorrow. Pre-save link in bio.

#newenglandmusic #caroleking #whereyouleadiwillfollow #singersongwriter #coversong_id #acousticcovers #gilmoregirlsquotes #coversongs #ctlivemusic #tvnostalgia

sneak peak into track 6!

this one’s about my summers at @teacherscollege with @teacherscollegemusiceducation 🤗📚🎶🎤

what’s the title?

#singersongwritersofinstagram #musicpromotion #musicpromo #singersongwriter #indierock #independentartist #singersongwriter #independentmusician #newmusicrelease #summermusic #newyorkcityvibes #nycsong #newyorkcitymusic #summerinnyc #summersongs #timesquarenewyork #columbiauniversity

sneak peak into track 6!

this one’s about my summers at @teacherscollege with @teacherscollegemusiceducation 🤗📚🎶🎤

what’s the title?

#singersongwritersofinstagram #musicpromotion #musicpromo #singersongwriter #indierock #independentartist #singersongwriter #independentmusician #newmusicrelease #summermusic #newyorkcityvibes #nycsong #newyorkcitymusic #summerinnyc #summersongs #timesquarenewyork #columbiauniversity

a bit of track 10 for you guys! what do you think it’s called?

Pre-save my full-length album “All I Really Need” so you get it as soon as it comes out on Sept. 5th. Link in bio.

studio revelations with @juliansherwoodspalace and @pace.ferro for the win. they’re the real masters behind this bit.

#singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriter #singersongwriters #musicpromo #musicpromotion #newmusicalert #newmusicsoon #softrock #indierock #independentmusician #indieartistmusic #septemberrelease #musicrelease #mellowvibes #chillmusic

a bit of track 10 for you guys! what do you think it’s called?

Pre-save my full-length album “All I Really Need” so you get it as soon as it comes out on Sept. 5th. Link in bio.

studio revelations with @juliansherwoodspalace and @pace.ferro for the win. they’re the real masters behind this bit.

#singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriter #singersongwriters #musicpromo #musicpromotion #newmusicalert #newmusicsoon #softrock #indierock #independentmusician #indieartistmusic #septemberrelease #musicrelease #mellowvibes #chillmusic

Colorado friends, come through! 🎶🙏🏻🎸🎤

Colorado friends, come through! 🎶🙏🏻🎸🎤

it’s finally happening (as in I finally stopped obsessing over details and just decided to take the leap LOOOL🫠)!! my first official full-length album “all i really need” will be available for streaming on sept. 5th at 12am EST.

more info to come!

#singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriter #musicpromotion #newalbumcomingsoon #musicrelease #rock #indiemusicians #independentartists #albumartwork

it’s finally happening (as in I finally stopped obsessing over details and just decided to take the leap LOOOL🫠)!! my first official full-length album “all i really need” will be available for streaming on sept. 5th at 12am EST.

more info to come!

#singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriter #musicpromotion #newalbumcomingsoon #musicrelease #rock #indiemusicians #independentartists #albumartwork

one of our friends came over to our apartment today for the first time and I think we scared him with how many gilmore girls-related things we have in our home. will he come back. probably not.

clip from last night at @sawdustcoffeehouse in sturbridge

#singersongwriter #coversong #gilmoregirls #tvthemesongs #tvthemesongcovers #acousticcovers #caroleking #whereyouleadiwillfollow #newenglandmusic

one of our friends came over to our apartment today for the first time and I think we scared him with how many gilmore girls-related things we have in our home. will he come back. probably not.

clip from last night at @sawdustcoffeehouse in sturbridge

#singersongwriter #coversong #gilmoregirls #tvthemesongs #tvthemesongcovers #acousticcovers #caroleking #whereyouleadiwillfollow #newenglandmusic

spent this past week being a silly goose in upstate New York with a bunch of home dogs, so I’ve been MIA on here lol sorry team BUT I’ve still got cool things coming up

sat., aug. 2nd (tonight) from 7:30-10:30 at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Sturbridge, MA

sun., aug. 10th from 2:30-4:30pm at @jives.coffee.lounge in COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (just added!!! Colorado friends come through!!!)

sat., aug. 16th from 7-10pm at @antimonybrewing in Lenox, MA

sat., sept. 13th from 7:30-10:30pm at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Putnam, CT

fri., oct. 3rd from 7-8pm at @luthierscoop in Easthampton, MA

———————————————

working on other cool things behind the scenes but life’s a bit wild so I don’t want to share too many details just yet. I will say that I’m doing the best I can right now to get new music out to you all. I know it’s been a long time coming. Doing this work and pursuing this dream of mine on top of being a full-time music educator has meant that I have to take my time on things, and I’m okay with that right now. I love my kids and my co-workers and the @scitechband program. I’ll give that my all, even if it means navigating this balance between teaching music and creating it.

I’m not the biggest fan of social media in part because sometimes it can be challenging to communicate these complicated areas of life, the areas where it’s not black and white, where it’s not just all success or all failure, where it’s not an extreme. I’m finding that a lot of the time, life is existing in the grey areas. there’s hardship and pain but there’s also joy and fullness and goodness, if you’re courageous and brave enough to look for it.

life’s a journey and I’m grateful to be living it learning through it all by the grace of God.

#singersongwriter #musiceducator #singersongwritersofinstagram #massachusettsmusic #livemusicmassachusetts #newenglandmusic #musicteacher #musicteachersofinstagram

spent this past week being a silly goose in upstate New York with a bunch of home dogs, so I’ve been MIA on here lol sorry team BUT I’ve still got cool things coming up

sat., aug. 2nd (tonight) from 7:30-10:30 at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Sturbridge, MA

sun., aug. 10th from 2:30-4:30pm at @jives.coffee.lounge in COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (just added!!! Colorado friends come through!!!)

sat., aug. 16th from 7-10pm at @antimonybrewing in Lenox, MA

sat., sept. 13th from 7:30-10:30pm at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Putnam, CT

fri., oct. 3rd from 7-8pm at @luthierscoop in Easthampton, MA

———————————————

working on other cool things behind the scenes but life’s a bit wild so I don’t want to share too many details just yet. I will say that I’m doing the best I can right now to get new music out to you all. I know it’s been a long time coming. Doing this work and pursuing this dream of mine on top of being a full-time music educator has meant that I have to take my time on things, and I’m okay with that right now. I love my kids and my co-workers and the @scitechband program. I’ll give that my all, even if it means navigating this balance between teaching music and creating it.

I’m not the biggest fan of social media in part because sometimes it can be challenging to communicate these complicated areas of life, the areas where it’s not black and white, where it’s not just all success or all failure, where it’s not an extreme. I’m finding that a lot of the time, life is existing in the grey areas. there’s hardship and pain but there’s also joy and fullness and goodness, if you’re courageous and brave enough to look for it.

life’s a journey and I’m grateful to be living it learning through it all by the grace of God.

#singersongwriter #musiceducator #singersongwritersofinstagram #massachusettsmusic #livemusicmassachusetts #newenglandmusic #musicteacher #musicteachersofinstagram

Some fun dates coming up… but that’s not all… stay tuned… !!!!

Some fun dates coming up… but that’s not all… stay tuned… !!!!

revisiting some stuff that i’ve neglected for a while and finding so much life in it.

what about you? what avenues have you neglected that you need to revisit? what fires in your heart have you allowed to burn out?

@sawdustcoffeehouse in Putnam, CT - this Saturday, 7:30-10:30pm 🎵❤️

#classicrockmusic #rockcover #theeaglesband #desperado #lindaronstadt #singersongwriter #newenglandmusic #ctlivemusic #ctlivemusicscene #rhodeisland #providence #acousticcovers

revisiting some stuff that i’ve neglected for a while and finding so much life in it.

what about you? what avenues have you neglected that you need to revisit? what fires in your heart have you allowed to burn out?

@sawdustcoffeehouse in Putnam, CT - this Saturday, 7:30-10:30pm 🎵❤️

#classicrockmusic #rockcover #theeaglesband #desperado #lindaronstadt #singersongwriter #newenglandmusic #ctlivemusic #ctlivemusicscene #rhodeisland #providence #acousticcovers

“If she isn’t posting then what is she even doing” —> living life

Was gonna share a quick story about how much I love this song by @ryelachance but instead I decided to use it to make a media-dump reel of recent life events, big and small

featured:
-celebrating my best friend + my brother getting married (to each other, yes — the coolest match on the planet)
-adventures in @scitechband land
-galaxy cheesecake
-winter becoming spring& now SUMMER
-attempting to make content (eventually you’ll see it — news flash posting has NOT been my thing recently — haven’t felt super inclined to contribute to the noise)

Forever navigating and figuring out this life of varying passions and interests. Thanks for coming along for the ride.

“If she isn’t posting then what is she even doing” —> living life

Was gonna share a quick story about how much I love this song by @ryelachance but instead I decided to use it to make a media-dump reel of recent life events, big and small

featured:
-celebrating my best friend + my brother getting married (to each other, yes — the coolest match on the planet)
-adventures in @scitechband land
-galaxy cheesecake
-winter becoming spring& now SUMMER
-attempting to make content (eventually you’ll see it — news flash posting has NOT been my thing recently — haven’t felt super inclined to contribute to the noise)

Forever navigating and figuring out this life of varying passions and interests. Thanks for coming along for the ride.

we’re back! next saturday night, putnam ct saw dust! 7:30-10:30pm. come thru. 🎉🙏🏻🎵 @sawdustcoffeehouse

#singersongwriter #ctlivemusic #rhodeislandmusic #newenglandmusic #acousticmusic #coffeeshop #coffeeshopmusic #ctbars #ctnightlife #providence

we’re back! next saturday night, putnam ct saw dust! 7:30-10:30pm. come thru. 🎉🙏🏻🎵 @sawdustcoffeehouse

#singersongwriter #ctlivemusic #rhodeislandmusic #newenglandmusic #acousticmusic #coffeeshop #coffeeshopmusic #ctbars #ctnightlife #providence

today anthony pointed out that it’s been a year since he promoted my music to retired people at costco so this is a post commemorating that time I guess. he then chased a bunny rabbit for me down the street and I just thought that that was important, so here’s a reel. I’m REALLY good at this social media thing, y’all.

but also people have been asking about new music! I promise, new music is on its way. thank you to all who are so supportive of my artistry. I’ve done nothing to deserve it and it really means the world to me😭❤️

#musicpromo #inacostco #singersongwritersofinstagram

today anthony pointed out that it’s been a year since he promoted my music to retired people at costco so this is a post commemorating that time I guess. he then chased a bunny rabbit for me down the street and I just thought that that was important, so here’s a reel. I’m REALLY good at this social media thing, y’all.

but also people have been asking about new music! I promise, new music is on its way. thank you to all who are so supportive of my artistry. I’ve done nothing to deserve it and it really means the world to me😭❤️

#musicpromo #inacostco #singersongwritersofinstagram

The World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast was a hit, as always! Thanks @leonnguyen1708 for capturing our students’ joy and a big thank you to @spiritofspringfield for always making our youth feel like gold!

Also, happy Massachusetts Day for Music Education!

#musiceducation #musiceducationmatters #musiced #scitechband #musicteacher #teachingmusic #massachusettsmusiced

The World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast was a hit, as always! Thanks @leonnguyen1708 for capturing our students’ joy and a big thank you to @spiritofspringfield for always making our youth feel like gold!

Also, happy Massachusetts Day for Music Education!

#musiceducation #musiceducationmatters #musiced #scitechband #musicteacher #teachingmusic #massachusettsmusiced

for all you planners out there

#westernmass #massmusic #newenglandmusic #ctlivemusic #hartfordmusic #springfieldmusic #singersongwriter #acousticmusic #livemusicvenue #showdates #livemusicshow

for all you planners out there

#westernmass #massmusic #newenglandmusic #ctlivemusic #hartfordmusic #springfieldmusic #singersongwriter #acousticmusic #livemusicvenue #showdates #livemusicshow

little throwback clip from the year I realized I had missed this #2021 #joanbaez #folksongs #singersongwritersofinstagram

little throwback clip from the year I realized I had missed this #2021 #joanbaez #folksongs #singersongwritersofinstagram

Another old clip (felt appropriate for our current state of affairs)😶🙏🏻

#covers #taylorswift #thecivilwars #thehungergames #moviesoundtracks #singersongwriter

Another old clip (felt appropriate for our current state of affairs)😶🙏🏻

#covers #taylorswift #thecivilwars #thehungergames #moviesoundtracks #singersongwriter

springtime means new beginnings and second chances - including for videos that I made months ago but never posted because they didn’t feel good enough. why do we artists get in our own ways, more than anyone or anything else? lately I’ve been wondering what I might be able to do and accomplish if I just got out of my own way.

Lil @thekimberlyperry cover, my humble attempt to do justice to her and her art

#kimberlyperry #thebandperry #countrycovers #cryatyourfuneral

springtime means new beginnings and second chances - including for videos that I made months ago but never posted because they didn’t feel good enough. why do we artists get in our own ways, more than anyone or anything else? lately I’ve been wondering what I might be able to do and accomplish if I just got out of my own way.

Lil @thekimberlyperry cover, my humble attempt to do justice to her and her art

#kimberlyperry #thebandperry #countrycovers #cryatyourfuneral

hi

it’s spring time

slowly coming out of hibernation

slowly getting back to what I was put here to do

thanks for being patient with me ❤️

hi

it’s spring time

slowly coming out of hibernation

slowly getting back to what I was put here to do

thanks for being patient with me ❤️

just confirmed! heading back to one of my favorite places on Saturday night. come join the fun!

#singersongwriters #newenglandmusic #ctlivemusic #livemusic #westernmassmusic

just confirmed! heading back to one of my favorite places on Saturday night. come join the fun!

#singersongwriters #newenglandmusic #ctlivemusic #livemusic #westernmassmusic

lil teaser of some stuff to come

#singersongwriter #newmusicsoon #singersongwritersofinstagram #vocalistsofinstagram #originalmusic #newenglandmusic

lil teaser of some stuff to come

#singersongwriter #newmusicsoon #singersongwritersofinstagram #vocalistsofinstagram #originalmusic #newenglandmusic

Can’t wait to share with you all some of the stuff that has come together with the unrivaled help of the team over at @pharaohrecordingstudios . 😍

In the mean time, come hangout at the @allsgoodfoundation ‘s jam session this Sunday at 3pm! I’ll be playing a set in this cozy space amongst several other talented, passionate artists from our area.

#singersongwriter #recordingartist #musician #musicianlife #springfieldma #newenglandmusic

Can’t wait to share with you all some of the stuff that has come together with the unrivaled help of the team over at @pharaohrecordingstudios . 😍

In the mean time, come hangout at the @allsgoodfoundation ‘s jam session this Sunday at 3pm! I’ll be playing a set in this cozy space amongst several other talented, passionate artists from our area.

#singersongwriter #recordingartist #musician #musicianlife #springfieldma #newenglandmusic

Interrupting this extensive lull in my personal attention to this Instagram account to bring you a small taste of some new music which will be announced in the near future. 🎉👍🏻🎶🙏🏻
#singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriter #newsong #newenglandmusic #indiemusic #songwriter #acousticsong #originalsong #songteaser

Interrupting this extensive lull in my personal attention to this Instagram account to bring you a small taste of some new music which will be announced in the near future. 🎉👍🏻🎶🙏🏻
#singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriter #newsong #newenglandmusic #indiemusic #songwriter #acousticsong #originalsong #songteaser

Oops she made an instagram just for teaching stuff!

Of course there are always overlaps between my music teacher life and my performing career. But the reality is that I’ve only become more invested in both of these areas, to the point that one account no longer fully conveys my work in both contexts.

Introducing @bandteacherwalsh ! Follow this page for teaching updates and @scitechband adventures from Mrs. Walsh’s point of view.

Oops she made an instagram just for teaching stuff!

Of course there are always overlaps between my music teacher life and my performing career. But the reality is that I’ve only become more invested in both of these areas, to the point that one account no longer fully conveys my work in both contexts.

Introducing @bandteacherwalsh ! Follow this page for teaching updates and @scitechband adventures from Mrs. Walsh’s point of view.

“post more performance videos” they said

I wrote “Black Eye” about ten years ago about a suuuuuper unhealthy relationship I was in.

Since then, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a relationship healthy and safe. The following are just a few of those things.

1) mutual respect — for each other and for your selves
2) trust (this must be continually cultivated and nurtured)
3) saying sorry. (A practical manifestation of the first two)

what are some others?

“Black Eye” available for listening and streaming now on all platforms

#singersongwriter #singersongwritersofinstagram #originalmusic #musicpromotion #singersongwriters #newenglandmusic #livemusic

“post more performance videos” they said

I wrote “Black Eye” about ten years ago about a suuuuuper unhealthy relationship I was in.

Since then, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a relationship healthy and safe. The following are just a few of those things.

1) mutual respect — for each other and for your selves
2) trust (this must be continually cultivated and nurtured)
3) saying sorry. (A practical manifestation of the first two)

what are some others?

“Black Eye” available for listening and streaming now on all platforms

#singersongwriter #singersongwritersofinstagram #originalmusic #musicpromotion #singersongwriters #newenglandmusic #livemusic

Yeah sure, and my dog ate my homework. Heard that one before. 😪🥱🙃

#bandteacher #banddirector #trumpet #highschoolband #musiceducation

Yeah sure, and my dog ate my homework. Heard that one before. 😪🥱🙃

#bandteacher #banddirector #trumpet #highschoolband #musiceducation

A post about teaching because it’s been a while since I officially posted about the other side of my life!

Being done with grad school (for now, at least) means I’m actually spending my time applying the things that I learned and testing out new methods and strategies for the benefit of the determined and hard-working young people in front of me.

I’m telling you all- these students are INVESTED. Of course I am so blessed to teach a subject that naturally lends itself to support individuality, personalized learning, and diversity (all things that this generation greatly values). I’m excited to see the education community continue to increase in its baseline capacity to do this across all subject areas.

I wish all educators could feel liberated by the reality that we don’t enter this profession having all the answers, and also that we don’t miraculously figure it all out just by doing the work for a certain number of years. It should be freeing to know that continued learning is a part of the work— to know that we simply can’t have all of the answers and that continued development of our teaching practices is just a part of the hang. And spoiler alert- how can we encourage our kids to be lifelong learners if we don’t model what that looks like, with our own lives?

Rant over. Maybe one day I’ll know how to make a coherent / to-the-point post about teaching. Happy Wednesday, friends. Go pursue joy today.

Photo context: instrument demo day at the beginning of last month 😍

#teaching #teachingideas #teachergrowthmindset #educatordevelopment #teachereducation #teachinglife #teacherlife

A post about teaching because it’s been a while since I officially posted about the other side of my life!

Being done with grad school (for now, at least) means I’m actually spending my time applying the things that I learned and testing out new methods and strategies for the benefit of the determined and hard-working young people in front of me.

I’m telling you all- these students are INVESTED. Of course I am so blessed to teach a subject that naturally lends itself to support individuality, personalized learning, and diversity (all things that this generation greatly values). I’m excited to see the education community continue to increase in its baseline capacity to do this across all subject areas.

I wish all educators could feel liberated by the reality that we don’t enter this profession having all the answers, and also that we don’t miraculously figure it all out just by doing the work for a certain number of years. It should be freeing to know that continued learning is a part of the work— to know that we simply can’t have all of the answers and that continued development of our teaching practices is just a part of the hang. And spoiler alert- how can we encourage our kids to be lifelong learners if we don’t model what that looks like, with our own lives?

Rant over. Maybe one day I’ll know how to make a coherent / to-the-point post about teaching. Happy Wednesday, friends. Go pursue joy today.

Photo context: instrument demo day at the beginning of last month 😍

#teaching #teachingideas #teachergrowthmindset #educatordevelopment #teachereducation #teachinglife #teacherlife

last minute scheduling.👏🏻 friends in the greater #easternct and #providenceri area, come through 🎤🎸

#singersongwriter #singersongwritersofinstagram #livemusic #livemusicvenue #coffeehousemusic #cafemusic #fridaynight

last minute scheduling.👏🏻 friends in the greater #easternct and #providenceri area, come through 🎤🎸

#singersongwriter #singersongwritersofinstagram #livemusic #livemusicvenue #coffeehousemusic #cafemusic #fridaynight

Yesterday I started one of our Advanced Band rehearsals by having everybody take three deep breaths in and out. It was the first time I’ve done something like that as a teacher, and honestly it wasn’t planned. I sensed the stress and tension in the room and their longing for resolve and direction, as I got on the podium and put my hand up to start rehearsal. At the end of those collective deep breaths it was clear that all of us needed those few seconds to just breathe. (And of course, their full band warmup immediately following those deep breaths, sounded amazing. But that’s besides the point.)

There’s a lot of stuff in life we can’t control. Things that happen, things that people say, rules that have been set, expectations and standards for us to meet. And sometimes as a society I think we’re tricked into just complying and going through the motions. But there’s something powerful about being able to reclaim our individual agency and ability to create goodness, on the daily. Reclaiming our breath, reclaiming our thoughts, reclaiming our direction, reclaiming our humanity. That’s empowerment and it’s what I want for myself and for my kids.

#wednesdaythoughts #musiceducator #musiceducation #bandteacher #musicteacher #breathing #empowerment

Yesterday I started one of our Advanced Band rehearsals by having everybody take three deep breaths in and out. It was the first time I’ve done something like that as a teacher, and honestly it wasn’t planned. I sensed the stress and tension in the room and their longing for resolve and direction, as I got on the podium and put my hand up to start rehearsal. At the end of those collective deep breaths it was clear that all of us needed those few seconds to just breathe. (And of course, their full band warmup immediately following those deep breaths, sounded amazing. But that’s besides the point.)

There’s a lot of stuff in life we can’t control. Things that happen, things that people say, rules that have been set, expectations and standards for us to meet. And sometimes as a society I think we’re tricked into just complying and going through the motions. But there’s something powerful about being able to reclaim our individual agency and ability to create goodness, on the daily. Reclaiming our breath, reclaiming our thoughts, reclaiming our direction, reclaiming our humanity. That’s empowerment and it’s what I want for myself and for my kids.

#wednesdaythoughts #musiceducator #musiceducation #bandteacher #musicteacher #breathing #empowerment

About last night…

Thanks so much @ga1ina for these clips🙏🏻🙌🏻

The musician’s space at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Putnam moved to the first floor a few weeks ago, and last night it made for such a cozy and intimate vibe with guests and audience members who came through. Thanks Saw Dust Coffee for always having me and to the regulars who allow me to share a part of my soul with them every time I play there.

#newenglandmusic #singersongwriter #singersofinstagram #massachusettsmusic #connecticutmusic #livemusicmatters #livemusicvenue #coffeeshopmusic #cafemusic #latenightcafe #putnamct #sturbridgema #acousticmusic #acousticcover

About last night…

Thanks so much @ga1ina for these clips🙏🏻🙌🏻

The musician’s space at @sawdustcoffeehouse in Putnam moved to the first floor a few weeks ago, and last night it made for such a cozy and intimate vibe with guests and audience members who came through. Thanks Saw Dust Coffee for always having me and to the regulars who allow me to share a part of my soul with them every time I play there.

#newenglandmusic #singersongwriter #singersofinstagram #massachusettsmusic #connecticutmusic #livemusicmatters #livemusicvenue #coffeeshopmusic #cafemusic #latenightcafe #putnamct #sturbridgema #acousticmusic #acousticcover

I know this is old news but please tell me what beats this guitar line???

#singersongwriter #coverartist #coversongs #fastcar #tracychapman #indiemusic #musiceducator #lovingmusic #makemoremusic

I know this is old news but please tell me what beats this guitar line???

#singersongwriter #coverartist #coversongs #fastcar #tracychapman #indiemusic #musiceducator #lovingmusic #makemoremusic

yeah I’m pretty terrible at letting people know what’s coming up but such is life! we’re out here

tomorrow night I’ll be jamming at @sawdustcoffeehouse in putnam ct and on the last friday of this month you can find me back at @forthillbrewery in beautiful easthampton ma 🙏🏻

also comment with what music you’ve been listening to lately because I want to know!

#singersongwriter #musiceducator #acousticmusic #pioneervalley #westernmamusic #livemusic #newenglandmusic #singersongwritersofinstagram

yeah I’m pretty terrible at letting people know what’s coming up but such is life! we’re out here

tomorrow night I’ll be jamming at @sawdustcoffeehouse in putnam ct and on the last friday of this month you can find me back at @forthillbrewery in beautiful easthampton ma 🙏🏻

also comment with what music you’ve been listening to lately because I want to know!

#singersongwriter #musiceducator #acousticmusic #pioneervalley #westernmamusic #livemusic #newenglandmusic #singersongwritersofinstagram

two months+ since “black eye” came out. i’m amazed because obviously my attention to self-promotion has been lacking for various reasons (I’ve felt more driven this summer to 1. better myself as an educator and 2. to rest before this next school year) — but people are still listening to this song and discovering it and connecting with it on a number of levels. I’m so glad it has resonated with people, and I hope it continues to remind you all that anything that adds darkness to your heart and mind is simply just not worth your time.

more music soon or naw?

#singersongwriter #musiceducation #musiceducator #musician #musicproduction #breakupsongs #heartbreaksongs #songsaboutabuse

two months+ since “black eye” came out. i’m amazed because obviously my attention to self-promotion has been lacking for various reasons (I’ve felt more driven this summer to 1. better myself as an educator and 2. to rest before this next school year) — but people are still listening to this song and discovering it and connecting with it on a number of levels. I’m so glad it has resonated with people, and I hope it continues to remind you all that anything that adds darkness to your heart and mind is simply just not worth your time.

more music soon or naw?

#singersongwriter #musiceducation #musiceducator #musician #musicproduction #breakupsongs #heartbreaksongs #songsaboutabuse

Introducing Ms. Lopez!!!

“Hello SciTech Band! If I haven’t met you yet, I am Ms. Lopez and I will be your new band director starting this fall! I am very ECSTATIC to become part of your SciTech family and create memories with you all. A little about me, I am a Springfield alum (I graduated way back when you guys were probably starting school), I played trumpet throughout middle and high school and then went to UMass Amherst to study music and made it a career. This is a very exciting moment for me and I hope you guys feel the same! Hope you guys enjoy the rest of your summer vacation! Enjoy the beach if you can, and I will see you all starting this August!”

Help us give a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the newest member of our SciTech Band family!

#scitechband #springfieldk12 #springfieldma #musiceducation

Introducing Ms. Lopez!!!

“Hello SciTech Band! If I haven’t met you yet, I am Ms. Lopez and I will be your new band director starting this fall! I am very ECSTATIC to become part of your SciTech family and create memories with you all. A little about me, I am a Springfield alum (I graduated way back when you guys were probably starting school), I played trumpet throughout middle and high school and then went to UMass Amherst to study music and made it a career. This is a very exciting moment for me and I hope you guys feel the same! Hope you guys enjoy the rest of your summer vacation! Enjoy the beach if you can, and I will see you all starting this August!”

Help us give a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the newest member of our SciTech Band family!

#scitechband #springfieldk12 #springfieldma #musiceducation

Thank you @musicwill for an amazing few days of learning and connection and growth. Feeling deeply encouraged after meeting with educators and college professors from all over the country to talk about practical steps for making music learning more accessible and equitable for all. Excited to get back to work, but first, some gallivanting around Colorado is in order. #modernbandsummit2024 #fortcollinsco #musiceducationmatters #musiceducationforkids #musicteacher #musicteachersofinstagram

Thank you @musicwill for an amazing few days of learning and connection and growth. Feeling deeply encouraged after meeting with educators and college professors from all over the country to talk about practical steps for making music learning more accessible and equitable for all. Excited to get back to work, but first, some gallivanting around Colorado is in order. #modernbandsummit2024 #fortcollinsco #musiceducationmatters #musiceducationforkids #musicteacher #musicteachersofinstagram

Things I’ve realized so far this week-

1) Music teachers: the content knowledge and skills that you take for granted - those are the topics waiting to be the objectives and focuses of your lessons.
2) Just because you have the knowledge and skills, doesn’t mean you know how to teach it well
3) If the concept is simple to you, but you don’t know how to teach it, chances are that somebody else has discovered/created a way to teach it and make it seem just as simple, for students.
4) For every reason or excuse for why you can’t do something, there are five reasons why you should do it anyway.

#modernbandsummit2024

Things I’ve realized so far this week-

1) Music teachers: the content knowledge and skills that you take for granted - those are the topics waiting to be the objectives and focuses of your lessons.
2) Just because you have the knowledge and skills, doesn’t mean you know how to teach it well
3) If the concept is simple to you, but you don’t know how to teach it, chances are that somebody else has discovered/created a way to teach it and make it seem just as simple, for students.
4) For every reason or excuse for why you can’t do something, there are five reasons why you should do it anyway.

#modernbandsummit2024

Graduating with a master’s degree: how it looks (“yay I did it!”) vs. how it feels (“uh okay what now”)
📸: @jiatian_yang_

Half kidding😅🙃 But blessed and relieved to finally be posting this, since I just finished my last class about a week ago.

Master of Arts in Music & Music Ed from Teachers College:✅

Posting this from a hotel room in Nebraska as I’m heading to @musicwill ‘s Modern Band Summit in Fort Collins CO this week to get more connected with conversations surrounding progressive and meaningful music education practices. Also just enjoying some summer along the way.

Hope everyone is having a blessed summer. 🙏🏻☀️

Graduating with a master’s degree: how it looks (“yay I did it!”) vs. how it feels (“uh okay what now”)
📸: @jiatian_yang_

Half kidding😅🙃 But blessed and relieved to finally be posting this, since I just finished my last class about a week ago.

Master of Arts in Music & Music Ed from Teachers College:✅

Posting this from a hotel room in Nebraska as I’m heading to @musicwill ‘s Modern Band Summit in Fort Collins CO this week to get more connected with conversations surrounding progressive and meaningful music education practices. Also just enjoying some summer along the way.

Hope everyone is having a blessed summer. 🙏🏻☀️

summer!!!!!!!!!

summer!!!!!!!!!

a contemplative take on black eye while practicing for @sawdustcoffeehouse tonight (Putnam location, 7:30-10:30)

#singersongwriter #singersongwritersofinstagram #songwriter #newenglandmusic #musiciansofinstagram #indiemusic #livemusic #ctlivemusic

a contemplative take on black eye while practicing for @sawdustcoffeehouse tonight (Putnam location, 7:30-10:30)

#singersongwriter #singersongwritersofinstagram #songwriter #newenglandmusic #musiciansofinstagram #indiemusic #livemusic #ctlivemusic

Honored to do this work and to have the opportunity to do this work at all.

Fifth slide typo oops 🙃🫠 *what we have done to support them

#musiceducation #musiceducator #educator #teachingphilosophy #educationtothecore #musicteacher #teaching #teachingideas #teachingforsocialjustice #teachingforchange #humility #listening #growthmindset #selfreflect

Honored to do this work and to have the opportunity to do this work at all.

Fifth slide typo oops 🙃🫠 *what we have done to support them

#musiceducation #musiceducator #educator #teachingphilosophy #educationtothecore #musicteacher #teaching #teachingideas #teachingforsocialjustice #teachingforchange #humility #listening #growthmindset #selfreflect

One year of “Can I Have You Back?” and one year of recording my music and releasing it into the void! 🙌🏻💕🎹

Also p s y c h this song I wrote at thirteen about a romance gone wrong actually became an anthem for rediscovering myself as a musician, ‘cause when life went wrong, I needed her more than ever.

#singersongwriter #singersofinstagram #singersongwritersofinstagram #roadtripmusic #summerhits #partymusic #summermusic #indiepop #indiepopartist #indieartist #indiemusic #indiemusician #oneyearanniversary #songwriter #songwriters

One year of “Can I Have You Back?” and one year of recording my music and releasing it into the void! 🙌🏻💕🎹

Also p s y c h this song I wrote at thirteen about a romance gone wrong actually became an anthem for rediscovering myself as a musician, ‘cause when life went wrong, I needed her more than ever.

#singersongwriter #singersofinstagram #singersongwritersofinstagram #roadtripmusic #summerhits #partymusic #summermusic #indiepop #indiepopartist #indieartist #indiemusic #indiemusician #oneyearanniversary #songwriter #songwriters

1) clearly my @scitechband students think my music is almost as good as Costco pizza
2) this is not a @costco sponsored post but @costco plz sponsor the @scitechband
3) keep those streams coming on black eye, thanks for all the love you guys have shown to it🥰💪🏻 link in bio to stream

#singersongwriter #costco #notacostcoad #singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriters #indiepopmusic #independentartist #breakupsongs #domesticviolenceawareness #songwriter #songwritersofinstagram #musicpromotion #newmusicrelease #newmusicalert🚨

1) clearly my @scitechband students think my music is almost as good as Costco pizza
2) this is not a @costco sponsored post but @costco plz sponsor the @scitechband
3) keep those streams coming on black eye, thanks for all the love you guys have shown to it🥰💪🏻 link in bio to stream

#singersongwriter #costco #notacostcoad #singersongwritersofinstagram #singersongwriters #indiepopmusic #independentartist #breakupsongs #domesticviolenceawareness #songwriter #songwritersofinstagram #musicpromotion #newmusicrelease #newmusicalert🚨

may photo dump feat. masters graduation + yay band + I like plants

somewhere in there I released a new single, too? …huuuh?

may photo dump feat. masters graduation + yay band + I like plants

somewhere in there I released a new single, too? …huuuh?

found an old notebook from my senior year of high school and flipped through it to find my original copy of lyrics for “something worth waiting for,” a song which I finally recorded and released about a year ago.

the surrounding pages in the notebook contain the initial writings of various college application essays, as well as to-do lists I made in preparation for applying to colleges for music education and clarinet performance.

soon into college, those studies took up any room in my life that i had previously devoted to songwriting.

there was never an intentional decision to set aside my songwriting for my pursuit of classical clarinet playing - it just happened. in fact most collegiate music programs present classical music as superior to pop music genres— even if the message is subtle, indirect, or unintentional.

i wish the message had been that truly it’s all just music. i wish i had known sooner that it was not only okay but beautiful and necessary to create and appreciate a variety of musical genres, not just the ones that were taught in school.

how are students supposed to know that the music they love is good and acceptable, when that music isn’t represented in school curriculum? let alone, if music represents us as people, then how are people supposed to know that they themselves are good and acceptable, when their musical preferences are not represented?

forever on a quest to affirm my students’ identities and musical interests and to do this better every day.

#thoughtsoftheday #teachingideas #culturallyresponsiveteaching #culturallyrelevantpedagogy #musiced #musiceducation #musiceducationmatters #musiceducationphilosophy #teachingphilosophy

found an old notebook from my senior year of high school and flipped through it to find my original copy of lyrics for “something worth waiting for,” a song which I finally recorded and released about a year ago.

the surrounding pages in the notebook contain the initial writings of various college application essays, as well as to-do lists I made in preparation for applying to colleges for music education and clarinet performance.

soon into college, those studies took up any room in my life that i had previously devoted to songwriting.

there was never an intentional decision to set aside my songwriting for my pursuit of classical clarinet playing - it just happened. in fact most collegiate music programs present classical music as superior to pop music genres— even if the message is subtle, indirect, or unintentional.

i wish the message had been that truly it’s all just music. i wish i had known sooner that it was not only okay but beautiful and necessary to create and appreciate a variety of musical genres, not just the ones that were taught in school.

how are students supposed to know that the music they love is good and acceptable, when that music isn’t represented in school curriculum? let alone, if music represents us as people, then how are people supposed to know that they themselves are good and acceptable, when their musical preferences are not represented?

forever on a quest to affirm my students’ identities and musical interests and to do this better every day.

#thoughtsoftheday #teachingideas #culturallyresponsiveteaching #culturallyrelevantpedagogy #musiced #musiceducation #musiceducationmatters #musiceducationphilosophy #teachingphilosophy

May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

I was planning to post about it at some point, but push finally came to shove today with an encounter that I had, so it looks like today’s the day.🙃

I’m so tired and grieved by the stigma that exists around mental health. I’m. So. Tired. Of it.

Depression and anxiety, among other mental health diagnoses, are 1) not experiences to be ashamed of or 2) defining aspects of a whole person.

Depression or anxiety do not make someone weak. If anything, some of the strongest and most resilient people I know have struggled with their mental health to some extent (not that we are glorifying mental health struggles in any way).

Depression and anxiety do not make one less capable of greatness or success. Better yet, a person who openly shares their story of struggle is demonstrating a level of bravery and authenticity that this world needs more of.

I’m not an expert, but I’ve been at my lowest of lows enough to know that people who struggle with depression and anxiety need to be pulled close, not pushed away. This includes in professional spaces which often promote a toxic “stiff upper lip and move forward” culture. This culture honestly almost led me to leave this profession which I’ve spent my life dreaming of pursuing.

If we’re sending a message to our colleagues and peers that our work determines our worth, then what are we teaching our youth? That output and productivity are more important than our hearts? More important than our love for one another? More important than smiling on a beautiful day? More important than learning how to find joy in the midst of this crazy world we’re in?

We are all just people who need to be loved and who need to feel safe being who they are. When people are loved, when they are given the space to feel their feelings and freely exist as their selves— that’s how greatness remains possible in the midst of struggle.

#mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #depression #anxiety #mentalhealth #depressionandanxiety #mentalhealtheducation #mentalhealthadvocate

May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

I was planning to post about it at some point, but push finally came to shove today with an encounter that I had, so it looks like today’s the day.🙃

I’m so tired and grieved by the stigma that exists around mental health. I’m. So. Tired. Of it.

Depression and anxiety, among other mental health diagnoses, are 1) not experiences to be ashamed of or 2) defining aspects of a whole person.

Depression or anxiety do not make someone weak. If anything, some of the strongest and most resilient people I know have struggled with their mental health to some extent (not that we are glorifying mental health struggles in any way).

Depression and anxiety do not make one less capable of greatness or success. Better yet, a person who openly shares their story of struggle is demonstrating a level of bravery and authenticity that this world needs more of.

I’m not an expert, but I’ve been at my lowest of lows enough to know that people who struggle with depression and anxiety need to be pulled close, not pushed away. This includes in professional spaces which often promote a toxic “stiff upper lip and move forward” culture. This culture honestly almost led me to leave this profession which I’ve spent my life dreaming of pursuing.

If we’re sending a message to our colleagues and peers that our work determines our worth, then what are we teaching our youth? That output and productivity are more important than our hearts? More important than our love for one another? More important than smiling on a beautiful day? More important than learning how to find joy in the midst of this crazy world we’re in?

We are all just people who need to be loved and who need to feel safe being who they are. When people are loved, when they are given the space to feel their feelings and freely exist as their selves— that’s how greatness remains possible in the midst of struggle.

#mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #depression #anxiety #mentalhealth #depressionandanxiety #mentalhealtheducation #mentalhealthadvocate

Excited to be back at Saw Dust in Sturbridge next Saturday night! 🎶🎤🎸

#singersongwriter #westernmass #livemusic #massart #musicma #singersongwriters #newenglandmusic #ctmusic #massachusetts_igers #massachusettsmusic #livemusicvenue #coffeeshopmusic #cafemusic

Excited to be back at Saw Dust in Sturbridge next Saturday night! 🎶🎤🎸

#singersongwriter #westernmass #livemusic #massart #musicma #singersongwriters #newenglandmusic #ctmusic #massachusetts_igers #massachusettsmusic #livemusicvenue #coffeeshopmusic #cafemusic

I made a Spotify playlist featuring some of the songs, styles, and sentiments that inspired the writing and production of “Black Eye,” as well as other tunes that echo the song’s vibe. It’s called ‘and a waste of time’ because as much as pain needs to be felt and acknowledged, it’s very okay and necessary to move forward in its wake. Playlist link in bio. ⬆️

The hype I’ve received around “Black Eye” is nuts. Thank you guys so much for loving this song and listening to it (for some of you, on repeat). I hope you are finding comfort and empowerment in it just as my younger self did from writing it. xoxox

#singersongwriter #singersofinstagram #singersongwritersofinstagram #indiemusic #indiemusician #songrelease #newsong #songwriter #indieartist #indiealternative #kimberlyperry #bandperry #fleetwoodmac #taylorswift #paramore #oliviarodrigo #evawestphal #demilovato #beyonce #laurengunn

I made a Spotify playlist featuring some of the songs, styles, and sentiments that inspired the writing and production of “Black Eye,” as well as other tunes that echo the song’s vibe. It’s called ‘and a waste of time’ because as much as pain needs to be felt and acknowledged, it’s very okay and necessary to move forward in its wake. Playlist link in bio. ⬆️

The hype I’ve received around “Black Eye” is nuts. Thank you guys so much for loving this song and listening to it (for some of you, on repeat). I hope you are finding comfort and empowerment in it just as my younger self did from writing it. xoxox

#singersongwriter #singersofinstagram #singersongwritersofinstagram #indiemusic #indiemusician #songrelease #newsong #songwriter #indieartist #indiealternative #kimberlyperry #bandperry #fleetwoodmac #taylorswift #paramore #oliviarodrigo #evawestphal #demilovato #beyonce #laurengunn

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@couellette.music

Upcoming Shows

Sat, Sep 13
Saw Dust Coffee (Putnam, CT)
Saw Dust Coffee (Putnam, CT)
RSVP
Sep 13, 2025, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Saw Dust Coffee (Putnam, CT), 91 Main Street, Putnam, CT 06260, USA
Another fun Saturday night of covers and originals! Come enjoy some food, drinks, dessert, and music.
Fri, Oct 03
Luthier’s Coop
Easthampton
RSVP
Oct 03, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Easthampton, 108 Cottage St, Easthampton, MA 01027, USA
Sat, Nov 01
Saw Dust Coffee (Putnam, CT)
Saw Dust Coffee (Putnam, CT)
RSVP
Nov 01, 2025, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Saw Dust Coffee (Putnam, CT), 91 Main Street, Putnam, CT 06260, USA
Another fun Saturday night of covers and originals! Come enjoy some food, drinks, dessert, and music.

Contact / Booking

(802) 497-7419

charlotte.g.ouellette@gmail.com

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