Chuck E. Costa, a talented singer-songwriter from Madison, CT, has been named as Connecticut’s State Troubadour for 2011-2012. He succeeds Lara Herscovitch, the state troubadour for 2009-2010.

Appointed by the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism based on a recommendation by a panel of music professionals, Costa serves as an ambassador of music and song to encourage cultural literacy and promote the State of Connecticut. In addition to his regular touring schedule – which has seen him playing festivals, coffeehouses, clubs and theaters across the Northeast and the country, Costa will perform at a number of state events in an emissary role over the next two years.

Costa, who performs at clubs, coffeehouses and festivals across Connecticut and the country, has been a winner or finalist in a number of singer-songwriter competitions. In 2009, he was among the emerging artists voted “Most Wanted to Return” at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival. Costa also was the winner of the 2008 Rocky Mountain Folks Fest’s songwriting competition and the 2007 Solarfest songwriting contest, as well as a Kerrville NewFolk Competition finalist that year. He has released several full-length recordings and an EP since 2002. Costa also is part of a new indie rock band called Mon Monarch that recently released its debut album.

Applicants for Connecticut State Troubadour were evaluated based on their musical and songwriting abilities, professional accomplishments in the field of music, and experience with diverse audiences.

“Chuck’s music and songs will serve as an inspiration for Connecticut citizens of all ages, ” said Karen Senich, the commission’s executive director. ”We are fortunate to count him among our rich and talented pool of state artists.”

Since the honorary position was established by the Connecticut state legislature in 1991, the following individuals have served as State Troubadours in addition to Costa and Herscovitch: Pierce Campbell, Thomasina Levy, Dennis Waring, Kevin Briody, Hugh Blumenfeld, Jeff and Synia McQuillan, Sally Rogers, Mike Kachuba, Bill Pere, Phil Rosenthal, Sandy and Caroline Paton, and Tom Callinan.