The Gallery

Welcome to the Charles Timberlake Gallery and Library pages.

In 2002, Jane Hicks, a freelance writer and former editor of DEO magazine, interviewed Charles Timberlake for the Arts section of the Christian Herald.

Peace and Power - with a piano

Charles Timberlake believes he is called by God to reach the man in the street with his piano music. JANE HICKS talks to him about his vision.

What inspired you to begin playing?

"I had a vision for a number of years to play for 'the man in the street' so that it was not exclusively a Christian thing. God has given me a gift of music and an ability to communicate. I want to bring people in touch with God. Many are searching for something spiritual in their lives and don't know what - I want to touch them through my music and to inspire them with a sense of God's peace. I also feel I am reaching out to those who are hurting or experiencing pain and suffering.

I have been so encouraged by the positive reaction to my music and continue to wonder how and why it has such an effect on people.

I believe God is using me - it is as though I am being channelled. It is an amazing experience and I feel so privileged."

Where do you play?

"In October 1999 I saw an advertisement for a craft show at Fort Purbrook, near Portsmouth. I contacted the organisers and they welcomed me with open arms. Interestingly, although I didn't know it at the time, family members of the organisers share a Christian faith. That weekend was wonderful. I realised for the first time the powerful effect the music was having on people, which I just hadn't expected.

Since then I have played at other craft shows under various organisers. Many are in marquees and at first I wondered how this would affect the acoustics. But I needn't have worried - it was all OK."

Who comes to listen?

"Many people of different ages and genres seem to be drawn, some of whom you would least expect. For example, at a recent craft show a couple of teenage boys sat and listened for about 20 minutes. Live playing really fascinates people. This interaction is so important. I see my music as an offering to God rather than direct evangelism. People have the freedom to read about me and walk away if they wish."

What about recordings?

"I am really excited about my latest album Wings of an Eagle. In a way I feel it is a reflection of my own character - a combination of gentleness and strength. Although the songs are gentle, there is also incredible power within the music to draw people."

"The idea for the title came from a song written by Sally Silk and Helen Rushforth. I was also influenced by the events of 11 September which features on the album; The Final Sacrifice is a musical version of a piece written by Sally, Helen and myself based on the crucifixion of Christ."

"My two earlier recordings - The Celestial Picnic released in August 2000 and Between the Worlds which came out in 1999 - have been received very positively".

Where do you go from here?

"I am now in full-time music ministry and perform both in secular and church venues. I go where I am called. Although I don't give direct testimony of my Christian faith, I believe the whole experience of performing, sharing my music and talking with people is part and parcel of leading them to God."

Charles is a member of St Peter's Church in his home village of Titchfield, Hampshire. He has a deep concern for homeless young people and prior to going into his own music ministry, worked for the homeless with the Accommodation Resource Centre in Fareham and Gosport, now part of the Two Saints Housing Association. He has recently completed a diploma course in counselling.