top of page
Who We Are
Charlene’s voice has been described as a beckoning invitation. Rich and sultry, this is a voice that is not naïve in ways of love, but certainly not jaded. There is an earnestness and a welcoming quality to Charlene’s approach, bringing a longing for sweetness of companionship. Bringing a past of 20's jazz and big band, along with other genres, Marty’s approach to the upright bass allows for a focus on the heart and core of each song, with rich warm tones that complement the vocals.
Charlene has been immersed in a lifelong study of and passion for music and dance. Her initial vocal and dance training began in early childhood and consistently proceeded through college level coursework at Portland State University. She has performed as a vocalist at jazz venues throughout Oregon and taught college-level theatrical and lyrical jazz dance in Portland for many years. Her lyricism and rhythm are forever intertwined between music and jazz dance.
Marty has played on eleven albums of various genres of music throughout the years, including one with trad jazz legend Wally Rose. He has played at the Montreux Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, and the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee, as well as numerous jazz clubs and festivals up and down the West Coast.
A Charlene and her Champagne Bruts performance slides with ease between the music of Peggy Lee, Julie London, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Bobby Darin and great jazz standards made famous by Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong. They also swing towards more modern day with songs from Willie Nelson, Tom Waits, Randy Newman, Garth Brooks, Babyface, and Lady Gaga.
Vocals: Charlene Hansen
Upright bass: Marty Main

bottom of page