Charlie Maguire

Certification: 
Artful Aging
Certification: 
Arts in Health Care

Charlie Maguire grew up in New York, and taught himself how to play the guitar when he was 13 by purchasing a “how to” book in a drugstore. After college, he met Pete Seeger, Lee Hays and Don McLean, who taught him that being a songwriter and musician was not only rewarding, but absolutely possible. He met Garrison Keillor in 1974 and performed on “A Prairie Home Companion” for nine years. More rewarding and exciting experiences followed; “Centennial Troubadour” for Minnesota State Parks, the “Singing Ranger” for the National Park Service, and appearances on “Good Morning America,” “All Things Considered,” “As It Happens,” and awards ranging from a Bush Fellowship to the New York Film and Television Festival.

Charlie is completely self-taught on guitar and various other folk instruments. He was mentored by songwriters Pete Seeger and Lee Hays (If I Had A Hammer). Because his style of songwriting is “handed down” from generation to generation in a personal way, Charlie passes on his love of music and song personally to each student in the classroom.

Charlie is a talented, no-nonsense musician who brings out the best in children. He easily establishes an instant rapport with the students. Even the shyest children willingly participate and all are eager to please. Thanks Charlie and COMPAS!

Kathy Anderson, Chisholm Elementary-Chisholm, MN

Kids really enjoyed Charlie. He has been a “tradition” here at Lakeview, and students look forward to working with him.

Teri Greenstein, Lakeview Elementary-Robbinsdale, MN

Programs offered by this artist/ensemble

Performance

Long time Minnesota folkies, Pop Wagner, Charlie Maguire, and bluesman Tony Glover, come together in a rare collaboration to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Guthrie’s birth in 1912 with a musical tribute to the songwriter.
This presentation will include some of Woody Guthrie's best-loved songs, along with readings and photographs from Woody's life.

Residency

What My Eyes Have Seen includes the creation of a totally original song (words & music) and the creation of individual works of visual art.
Once the topic of the class songwriting activity is chosen, Charlie works with every student to write the new song as a group.

Workshop

An excellent companion workshop to the Woody Guthrie performance! Learn some tunes on the jaw harp in this workshop.