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October 10, 1960 - November 12, 2009
When you were with Charles, you were the most important person in the world to him. His time, money, talents, and very life were continuously offered to others. We received all this and relished in who he was. Charles loved sipping Margaret's Hope 2nd Flush Darjeeling and buying coffee for as many people as he could at Lux. He sometimes arrived at his Tuesday morning book study unprepared because he had given his book away. He had photographic memory. He had "absolute pitch"; play any note, on any instrument, and he could name or replay that note. At the age of 24, he had already composed four symphonies, three operas, multiple piano and organ works, a host of songs for voice and piano/orchestra accompaniment, string quartets and piano trios. He traveled extensively. He learned several languages; German particularly fluently. He performed many recitals at private concerts around the world, premiered and recorded works from some of the world's most exemplary living composers. Yet, foremost, we discovered rather quickly the thing which was closest to Charles' heart and soul: Jesus Christ; his mother, Louise; and everyone else he met. Charles gave us an understanding of what a life given to others looks like, feels like, and sounds like.
29 comments:
Would you please post something about what happened? We were devastated to hear that he died and we can't believe it is true. We received the news third hand so if someone knows what happened, please be so kind as to tell us.
Sincerely, the Josts.
Charles was my best friend as well, Before Joey's cappucino, he would give me a lesson on friday even if I would never practice he would come anyway and say. "You didn't practice, so you don't want to play anything. That's OK." We would just chat. or talk about some personal problem I was having with memorization or even a family matter. In exchange I would tune his pianos and any of his friends if he knew they could not afford to have their pianos tuned.
Someone called my house because they did a google and saw his name on my resume which is posted on my website. Later a former customer called who was a referral from him notifying me of the horrific news.
From what I know Charles was near and dear to all of his students and their parents. He would stay over at their house for dinner and look after their animals when they were on vacation. Whenever I needed him, he was there.
His faith was very solid, I would like to challenge him to learn yoga from me but when it came to him making a choice of accepting a different master no person or thing could compare to Jesus.
Ironically that did not stop him from having dearer friendships than mine with flat out hedonistic atheists. He was the best friend all of us have had of the few people I have had the fortune to tune for.
To keep his memory alive I hope to read of more stories of his endearing friendship from others and form some sort of foundation to give service to people like the ones whom I had tuned for him. It would be a matter of shedding our selfish beliefs and interest and embracing his passion which was good company and music.
He always found time for that and from this day forth I will not allow myself the luxury of not playing to perfection the pieces that I like play so that I can be a worthy student and friend of my favorite one. God speed Charles you will be in my dreams now. Go with God.
G. Eliot Lee, RPT
CHARLIE
The First time I saw him I knew he was special maybe even famous. He looked up from the most beautiful of writings to sip his coffee. (You know how he loved his coffee!) I remember thinking to myself, “I didn’t know writing could be a beautiful treasure like what I was seeing.” He was composing his music, right there in the Starbucks café. I said, “Hello that is so beautiful. Are you a composer?” He smiled and said, “I play a little.” (What an understatement.) In all my life, I have never known a more perfect picture of humility than my Charlie. He proceeded to ask me, a barista wiping the tables at Starbucks, if I played. I said, “I’ve always wanted to but my family could not afford the lessons. He then offered up himself. He then offered up his talents. He then offered up his priceless gift. He offered to give me and my three children lessons free of charge and he then followed through with his offer. In all of my life, I have never known a more perfect picture of generosity than my Charlie. I will never forget the priceless gift of music he gave me and my children.
I love the way Charlie pet my dog and renamed her Spartlets instead of Sparkles. I love the way Charlie took his loafers off at my door, not because he was worried about my floors but because he felt comfortable in my home. I loved the way Charlie ate everything I was making whenever he came for a lesson and as he looked up from the dish with his fork half way to his mouth saying, “Well, I really shouldn’t!” I loved the way Charlie got excited about his car. I loved the way Charlie loved my three children: Anthony, Shayna, and Tiffany. I loved the way Charlie became part of my family and joined us for birthday celebrations, anniversaries and parties. I love Charlie!
That was Charlie, never Charles to me, always Charlie. Charles was what he looked like, distinguished, dignified, and important. Charlie was what I saw, warm and giving, comfortable, approachable and most of all loving. You are with Jesus now Charlie I have no doubts, what an incredible example of our Lord and Saviors “good and faithful servant you have been.” But know we will miss you terrible. Who will play at my daughters’ weddings? Who will celebrate my graduation with song after the 6 long years you have encouraged me to become a teacher? You were our teacher our friend and we love you Charlie.
Charles played the piano for our church in Phoenix. I'm going to miss joking around with him during worship practice. I always had to get my hug every Sunday. He was such a loving person. He would call me up once in a while and ask how I was doing, and he wanted to let me know that he was thinking about me. As little as I knew him personally, it seemed like we were close friends, because when he would talk, I knew that I mattered to him. He just conveyed that in his attitude. I aspire to be more like him, to follow his example as he followed Christ. I enjoyed his music, but I enjoyed the character of the man so much more. I love you brother.
A Eulogy to Charles Wells (our very good friend)
Every now and then, if we are lucky we have, maybe one, or two, or maybe even three people that pass through our life that leaves an impact on us. With Charles, impact is an understatement! He not only impacted everyone that he came to know, but he made an indelible mark on your heart!
I was privileged to be introduced to Charles through my daughter- in–law Hanh and my son David, and also became a good friend with Charles as did the whole Giannetta Family. We all had so many of the same loves, Music, Italy, Good Food, Good conversation, good wine, and good wine! I will never forget the great times in Mexico, and gatherings at the Giannetta’s, and, of course Charles would play for Gramma! ( She called him Charlie!) We would sing Neapolitan songs, as Charles accompanied me yelling in his ear! Charles never got tired of our crazy family! Why, because, Charles, more than anything else, Loved People! He loved being with people, and talking with people, but more than anything, Charles loved doing for people. He could never say no, and always went out of his way to accommodate everyone! Rarely are we privileged to find a person that is so giving of self, and what he had, as Charles did. He was at times, soft spoken! But always gentle, kind, generous, caring, talented, modest, and humble. These are traits and gifts that Charles so readily shared with all of us.
Charles truly lived his beliefs, and convictions, and was an example by his actions, as to what it means to be a TRUE LOVING CHRISTIAN. First, he cared so faithfully for his mother Mrs. Wells, and was totally dedicated to her wellbeing. In his work, to the people he taught, and to all others, he showed the love of God, He witnessed to all, with his loving BIG HEART, We will all miss him, and all that he meant to each of us.
Charles, you left us too soon, and we will miss you so much, but we are comforted, in that, we were fortunate to have you in our lives, even for a short time, and we are grateful for all the beautiful memories that you gave to us.
We love you Charles, and we will miss you so. Thank you for your life, and your love. Your song will be in our hearts forever!
Paula Giannetta, November 15, 2009
Charles Wells was a wonderful man who came into our lives shortly after we moved to Arizona only 3 1/2 years ago. I searched for a piano teacher for my two daughters and someone recommended Charles to me. How grateful we were to know him! He was kind, learned, disciplined, and warm each time he came to teach them. I introduced him to others who came to employ him as their children's instructor as well and he was warmly thought of by my family.
He continually told us of a restaurant he wanted to take us to visit in downtown Phoenix, as he knew I love to cook and appreciate good food and fellowship. Unfortuantely, I learned of Charles' passing today and we never had that meal together. I haven't seen him in about a year. Now, my family will look forward to seeing him at the dinner table of Christ Jesus in whom we delight and adore.
Much love and many prayers go out to and for Charles' mother and church family. Although we didn't attend his congregation, in Christ Jesus we are all one body.
We love you and are praying for those of you who loved Charles so dearly. Be comforted in the arms of Jesus, our Savior.
Charli Pettis
-on behalf of the Pettis family
My name is Abrianna Braaksma. I am 13 and have taken lessons from Mr. Wells for the past few years. I just found out today when he didn't come for my lesson, that he had passed away. I am so very upset, sad, and in shock. I will miss him so much. He was so kind and patient with me and has taught me so much. It wasn't just the piano lessons, but that he would share lots about God, Truth, and how to live for Christ. He had a passion for reading, for knowing all sides of different worldviews and for articulating what is True and Godly. He taught me alot. He also had a great sense of humor and was funny and had so many interesting stories. He seemed more like a good friend or a part of our family than just a teacher. He talked so affectionately of his mother. I wish that I could meet her sometime. He has not only inspired me with my piano, but to be the kind of Christian that he is. I am glad that he is in heaven and that I will see him again some day. He is so very special to me, and I will miss him so very much.
When I was about 11 or 12, Charles was my piano instructor. He was such a kind, warm teacher, that I almost didn't feel like I was being taught-- rather, sitting at my piano with a friend. Charles once lent me a gigantic Musical Encyclopedia hard cover book-- about 5" thick and very heavy-- as a resource for me to study and understand the history of music. I lost touch with Charles when other extracurricular activities started to overtake my passion for piano, but I never had the chance to return the book to him. 12 years later, at age 24, I joined a Creative Round Table group in Phoenix, for creative professionals. Much to my surprise, Charles Wells was sitting there among the other members when I walked into the room! I couldn't believe the coincidence, and even more, I couldn't believe that I had hung onto that book for so long -- sometimes you just can't explain your reason for doing something, other than intuition. I brought the encyclopedia to my second meeting with the group, handed it over to Charles, and we had a good laugh about it. He even asked about my mother, whom he remembered as if he'd seen us recently. He was so sweet and friendly. It's been awhile now since I've seen him. I was very saddened to hear the news of Charles' death. From the looks of it, he touched many peoples' lives in such a positive way. Rest in peace. You will live on in all of us.
Lauryn.
My husband and I have spent the days since we learned of Charles's death in mutual, profound sadness. To think that we will never hear and watch him play his beautiful music is almost unbelieveable to us. The void that we feel is hard to describe.
Echoing what many have said, Charles became a part of our family, joining us in special celebrations, simple dinners, interesting, fun, conversations, and, of course, the lessons. He was consistently patient, supportive, and beyond generous with his time and talent.
We cannot imagine the deep grief that his mother must be experiencing. We are hoping that she can feel some comfort knowing that she raised a wonderful man, who had such integrity, who loved well and was loved by so very many. I am convinced that each person who knew Charles is a better person because of the relationship.
Charles and I met in 1988 while working together at “Leonard’s Luggage”. Neither of us were much of luggage salesmen and our aspirations eventually carried us along our respective paths.
We worked together for a few years and instantly became close friends. Those of you who know Charles recognize how quickly you felt loved and appreciated just by being in his presence. He has a caring and loving heart. He is not quick to judge; rather he insists upon seeing the best in everyone. Since the day we met I have never known him to give less than 100% of himself in the service of others. In that sense, he truly is the type of man we should all strive to emulate.
I have always known Charles as Charles. It wasn’t until a few years later when I met his mother did I realize others may only know him as Kevin. When I first met his mother she kept referring to a gentleman named Kevin and nobody else was in the room besides the three of us. I had asked Charles to whom his mother was referring and he politely said, “Why me of course.” How silly of me! It was then that I learned about the Kevin moniker.
In 1994 Charles stood by my side as one of my groomsmen at my wedding to my dear wife Laurie. He was kind enough to compose a trumpet piece for us (which has never been performed) and is framed and hanging in our living room. Those of you that have ever seen a single letter scribed by Charles recognize his unique style of writing. All of his letters look as if they are straight out of the 18th century. I remember him insisting on always using the finest parchment, a fountain pen and a discriminating hand when pen hit paper.
Over the years he went on to do many wonderful things for people. There was a brief stint in time when he would spend long hours delivering and assembling furniture and components for customers of a friend of his. I would ask him why he was doing this and wasn’t he concerned that he may injure his hands? He did not seem concerned. Nothing was ever beneath him. His joy was in helping others despite the task.
He had tried his best to create in me a concert pianist. We spent a couple of months in the early 90’s and earlier in this century endeavoring to reach this goal. I must admit that taking instruction from a friend was easier than I had thought and I likely could have become very good at the piano if time allowed more practice. I was amazed how he could carry on a conversation with my wife across the room while listening to me practice. Every now and again the corrective “E not G” statement (or some other variety) would be lovingly spoken across the room. He had such a well tuned ear! He never charged me a dime for lessons.
Earlier in this decade we spent a few years attending a local Bible Church together and enjoyed being able to spend Sunday mornings worshipping together. If he did not have students to teach immediately after church we would oftentimes share lunch together at “Houston’s” or “Einstein’s”.
As the years rolled by we would rarely speak or see each other but a couple of times per year. However, each time we did contact one another it was as if a day had not passed. He called me just before his final birthday and left me a message stating we should get together soon. I returned his call and left a message of my own stating how coincidental it was to receive a call from him just before his birthday. We were always joking with each other in this manner.
He did continue in the game of phone tag with a message of his own stating how busy he was and that we did need to find a date.
I never heard from nor saw Charles again. The next phone call I received regarding Charles was from Joey.
I learned many things from Charles during his life and I expect I will continue to be encouraged by the friendship we shared now that he is in Heaven.
In reading all of these beautiful blogs about Charles, I have come to the conclusion that Charles has touched so many hearts. He touched mine, my daughter Mandy's and my dogs Sissy and Polly. My dogs could not leave him alone, but he always said not to worry. He was also my daughter's piano teacher, good friend and soon to be my piano teacher. I will never forget the times we could not stop laughing during my daughter's lessons. Her lessons were more like 45 minutes because I wanted to talk. He was such a joy. I loved talking to Charles about politics and God. Sometimes I would literally chase him out the door. He would not run. He was always polite. He gave us all new names: Manster, Pollster, Sister and I think he called me momster a couple of times. My heart goes out to his mother and his best friend that he mentioned a couple of times. He said that they were both beautiful and I would really like them both. I know this is true. God bless you both and all Charles's friends during this terrible time of loss.
Our family has only been acquainted with Charles since June of '09, but we have been profoundly impacted by
his method of teaching. Charles' words of wisdom and instruction at the piano will be forever woven into the fabric of our children's musicianship.
May the Holy Spirit ever so graciously comfort Louise, Joey & Lisa, and each and every one that Charles touched throughout his short life.
Sincerely,
Diana Smith for the entire Smith Family
Words cannot express what Charles has meant to me. I know that I speak for so many when I say that he has changed my life in ways that I will never fully realize. He was committed to making each thing he did an expression of his love towards those around him and to God. Heaven has just become so much more heavenly.
Kevin was my life long friend...We stayed in touch over all these years. We met at Moutain Veiw Southern Baptist Church, he was about 15 years old then I guess, and that would have to make me 13yrs old. From the very first we became instant friends, and became very close. I would stay over at his house and his mother Louise used to make the BEST french toast. I remember doing my home work while listening to Kevin practice on the piano...He was Amazing!! I loved Kevin, he was my dearest of friends and he ment the world to me, and its killing me that I cant attend his funeral. You see I now reside in England and I'm not exactly rich..Quite the opposite actually. But if I could I would sell everything I own just to say good-bye. Just writting this is so hard, I have to quit typing every once in a while to wipe my eyes so I can see to go on. I have so many memories that have accumulated over the years that I could share...I had the privilege and honour of calling Kevin my friend.
Most sincerely,
Charles has been our piano teacher for almost 2 years. We would like to know more about what happened. We had his ice water and coffee sitting on the end table for him as we always did when he came on Thursdays. What a shock! Thank you for taking your time to make this web page and letting everyone know what is going on.
Charles was a great friend and brother in Christ. I remember how kind and generous he was to me after my husband died almost 4 years ago. The Bible says to love one another deeply from the heart. I loved Charles deeply from my heart. I too have a hard time believing he is gone. He will always be in my memories and my heart.
When I heard of the news of Charles’ passing, I could not believe it. I was shocked and deeply saddened. I could not imagine something like this happening. Charles was a great piano teacher and a great mentor for the five years I’ve known him. Even when I had those lessons where I wasn’t playing well at all and it seemed nothing was going right, he still made me feel better and focused on the positives. He was a very understanding and kind man.
I remember the first time I met Charles. Our family had been looking for a new piano teacher since we just moved to Phoenix. We went through a couple of other teachers before Charles. When I saw him, I instantly knew that he would be my new piano teacher and then when he played, I was blown away. He was extremely talented and has inspired me to take my playing to new heights. He was a great influence on my life and my future. I will never forget you Charles; you will be greatly missed by everyone.
Charles was such a sweet person. He loved Jesus with all his heart and was a true servant of Christ. His presence at our church is missed dearly.
I feel so out of it and Charles missed again last night. My cell phone is being repaired with his phone number. I searched and found his number. He would never not call. His message box was full last week. Charles arrived every Sunday evening for my only son piano lessons the past three 1/2 years. He sipped Patron Anejo last holiday season and Black English tea each lesson. Summers were a fruity, cold drink. He had a good sense of humor. Once I cooked him a grilled cheese sandwich he ate with my son. He said it was the best he ever had! haha. I looked forward to our visits with Charles and we'll miss him dearly. Chance and Julie.
My son and I knew Charles for only a short time, when he started teaching my son piano this fall.
He was wonderful with Adam. We are both sad that we will no longer see him on Monday nights.
My favorite line from Charles, which I will use again and again: "You're mistaking 'I can't for I don't know how.'"
Our family was honored to have Charles come into our home and teach piano for 3 years. Now we have the memories... everytime my daughter Marielle plays "Fur Elise" we really think of Charles and miss him. That was her first song, and he insisted she learned the Full version, which I am thankful he had the patience to teach her at age 9. (now age 11) Morgan also took lessons (age 13) and now Kiera age 8 had just begun taking lessons. If anyone knows of a piano instructor that comes to your home please post the name and phone #. We know we will eventually find someone, but our Charles is hard to replace. Thanks also for setting up this web sight, its been nice to read about the memories of Charles. We are Thankful we had him in our lives even for a short time. Laura and Tom Johnson
Charles Wells became our family's piano teacher in 2001. Having had mechanical, unenjoyable piano experiences as a child, I (dad) was interested in a 'musical' teacher for my children. Charles responses and performance of Fur Elise during the interview exceeded my expectations, and he quickly became a dear blessing to our family, gracing our home every couple weeks with gentle, patient, encouraging 'musical' piano instruction, great discussions and delightful performances. We shared faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Because of Charles testimony and life, we are confident he is in Paradise with our Lord and though we miss him terribly, we rejoice in his promotion!
Our six children, now ages 8 - 17 have all been blessed by his instruction. Here are a few compliments our family would like to pay Charles.
Nathaniel (8): Mr. Wells was a friendly guy, and a nice piano teacher.
Luke (10): Mr. Wells was very nice to me, he encouraged me much, and I will miss him a lot.
Joel (12): Mr. Wells really encouraged me, and helped me to understand how to play the piano, giving me an appreciation for music.
Daniel (14): Mr. Wells explained things in terms I could understand, was always interested in my opinion and accepted me.
Catherine (16): Mr. Wells was so encouraging and loving to me. No matter how I played, he would tell me I was really growing, and not to give up. I can't tell you how much that meant to me. He was sweet and humble, yet the smartest most gifted person I have known, without making it a big deal. I learned surprising stuff about him all the time in conversations, like speaking multiple languages, performing in various countries, knowing leaders, etc. He was such a great friend and teacher. I feel privileged to have known him and will miss everything about him.
Erin (17): There's so much to say about Mr. Wells it will be hard to make this short. I could probably say that the love I have for music right now was jump started by him. He helped me to pass the point of just practicing and to begin the enjoyment of playing. He was always encouraging. Even on the lessons where in my own eyes I had made little progress, he was sure to point out what HAD improved. He talked to you as if you were as smart as he was, and even if it went over the head of a little kid, you always felt important. When I think about him not being here it feels unreal. In my last lesson with him we were talking about the pieces we were going to work on for auditions and such, I was just starting what he described as a very technically difficult, fun and rather impressive piece. I was so looking forward to the instruction I would receive as I worked on it. Now, even though those pieces seem much more difficult without him, I can continue on with what he's already given me. I thank God for his life and the impression he's made on mine. He will be greatly missed.
Liz (mom): Charles talked about his mom often and I know he loved her dearly and felt a strong sense of duty to care for her. His life was one of giving to others. I'm going to miss getting his wise perspective in conversation, his wittiness and humor and his laugh! He was a man who lived for what mattered.
Daniel (dad): Jesus said "Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." I praise my Father in heaven for the many gifts He gave Charles and for the beauty of His sacrificial love expressed through Charles life.
We thank God for making our paths cross with Charles. We feel privileged to have known and shared part of life on earth with him. We pray God may use Charles' life yet in the future to draw others who knew him into believing in Jesus unto eternal life!
Charles was my piano teacher for who knows how long and sometimes i never really wanted to play and he would always make it sooo easy on me and he would say "ok just doa scale then you can be done" and he would never tell my mom. He was an amazing piano teacher and it was so devastating when i had heard that he had passed away but,i know that he has left an impact on ,my life and he left an impact on anybody's life that he knew. I still watch the window on Monday to see if he is coing but i only do that to bring back good memories.
I miss Charles soo much and so does my family and we all know that he was an amzing pianist and friend and knowing that gives us the confidence at the end of the day to say " everything will be okay"
He will always be with us no matter what! and like he would always say "Duckie to you to"
He will be missed,
The Berk Family
Charles would always live every day like it was his last because ypu never know when something could happen.
He is very missed and very loved and he is always going to be with us!!
I would like to share a few of my experiences with Charles from my time at Arizona State University. Charles came to be my student in composition. I noticed right away that he was a very gifted pianist and musician. he had a problem in one of his arms where it wouldn't really move, though.. Inspired by both his musicality and his personality, I told him, "I'm going to write you a piece that will hopefully help you to lift your arm.
The resulting work was my "Seven Mirrors".
[Note from Joey: "On November 25, 2009, the New York Times counted Chinary Ung's CD, "Seven Mirrors" - which features Charles performance - as one of only 22 "Must Buy" Classical CD's for the year 2009. To purchase the CD, see the Amazon link at the bottom left."]
I remember when Charles came to San Diego to record "Seven Mirrors". He was staying at the hotel and had no piano there - no way to really prepare in the days right before the recording. It turned out that the only preparation Charles needed was to just sit and look, examining the score! I remember his doing this at breakfast the day of the recording.
Further along these lines, during the actual recording, Charles almost only took one take - one movement at a time. He was always so well prepared and had such a deep understanding of the music that we were essentially recording "run throughs", unofficial performances. It was a real pleasure to work with him.
His kindness extended to visiting and attending performances of my works. In this way, he seemed to radiate selflessness and a genuine interest in my work. I am sure it is the same with many of you. If I could think of only one word to describe Charles, it would be "Noble". I even used to jokingly call him, "Prince Charles"!
He was also a gentle man. Of course, he was also a gentleman. But, really, a gentle, caring man.
My interaction with Charles began in the classroom at ASU, the concert hall and the recording studio. After those first years, our friendship grew. We met regularly to go out for lunch. One of our favorite foods to get was Vietnamese noodle soup. I remember that his noodle soup was always red. It was all the red pepper. He really liked to take it spicy!
Charles was like another member of my family. We have known each other since my daughters were very little. He is one of the very few friends or students that was like a part of the family.
If I were to say something that he thought was right, or he agreed with, his regular response would be "No Doubt". He always seemed to say this! he had a fantastic sense of humor and way of looking at life. Well, now I can say that there is "no doubt" that he will be greatly missed. He was touched my life deeply and my family and I will deeply miss him.
Chinary Ung, 12 Nov 2009
IF you miss hearing and seeing Charles play, here is a video to lift your spirit for a few moments: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTG-zW79jnU
"Finally, thank you to everyone who introduced themselves to me at the Memorial or continue to do so in emails. It means a great deal to me."
It was no problem Joey, it's clear everyone felt honored that we could come and were able to help alleviate your unique loss. Many thanks for taking some of your time to talk to us.
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