CCU Composer Charles Denler Earns 2025 Emmy Nomination for PBS Documentary Score

Posted on August 06, 2025

CCU Composer Charles Denler Earns 2025 Emmy Nomination for PBS Documentary Score

Lakewood, CO - Colorado Christian University is proud to announce that acclaimed composer and Artist-in-Residence Charles Denler has received a 2025 Emmy Award nomination from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in the category of Outstanding Music Composition. The recognition honors Denler's original score for the PBS documentary Voices Over the Water, a film exploring the cultural legacy of Scotland's native peoples and their influence in American history.

"I was completely surprised and elated to find out that I received a nomination for this wonderful PBS film," said Denler. "The documentary speaks to the rich history and culture of the Scottish people in America and abroad. My wife Joanie and I went to the premiere in New York a few years ago, and it will be a delight to head back to the city this fall for the Emmy Awards Gala."

Denler previously received four Emmy Awards for his work, underscoring his enduring legacy in original film composition. His past honors include Bentley Creek (2004), Beyond the Medal of Honor (2005), Wild Mustang Suite (2019), and Portraits in Season (2022) - all recognized for excellence in music composition.

At CCU, Denler directs the Composition and Commercial Music programs, where he mentors aspiring musicians and composers through a curriculum that integrates technical excellence with a Christ-centered artistic vision.

"Denler's Emmy nomination is a testament to his artistic excellence and dedication to our students," said Steven Taylor, Dean of the School of Music at CCU. "We are proud of the impact he's making both at CCU and in the industry."

The Emmy Awards ceremony will take place on October 11, 2025, at the Marriott Marquis in New York City.

About the CCU School of Music

Colorado Christian University's School of Music prepares students to honor God through excellence in musical artistry. The Music program provides training in areas including classical performance, composition, worship leadership, and commercial music production. Under the guidance of nationally recognized faculty, CCU music students graduate equipped to serve as influential artists, worship leaders, and creative professionals.