Charissa Hoffman Releases Debut Album Horizon
The Berklee alumna launches her debut LP featuring collaborations with renowned folk artists.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Folk
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Charissa Hoffman has officially released her debut LP, Horizon, which showcases nine tracks. The project includes high-profile guest appearances from several prominent musicians in the folk scene.
Why it matters
The album marks a significant milestone for Hoffman, who gained industry recognition as the first ukulele principal at Berklee School of Music. Her transition from academic success to a full-length studio release highlights her evolving role within the contemporary folk landscape.
The Horizon album consists of 9 tracks total. It features collaborations with Béla Fleck, Abigail Washburn, Chris Eldridge, and Nina de Vitry, and was produced by John Mailander.
The players
Charissa Hoffman
She is a musician and the first ukulele principal ever accepted at the Berklee School of Music.
John Mailander
He is a professional musician and producer who oversaw the production of the Horizon album.
Béla Fleck
He is a highly acclaimed banjo player and composer known for his work in bluegrass and jazz fusion.
Abigail Washburn
She is a singer and clawhammer banjo player known for her focus on Appalachian music and Chinese cultural fusion.
The details
The album draws on a collective of guest musicians to flesh out its sound, building on the foundation set by Hoffman’s unique musical background. She is launching a concert tour to promote the music, with the Nashville release show serving as a key early date.
Timeline
The debut LP Horizon was released on October 16, 2026.
A Nashville release show is scheduled for November 9, 2026.
The tour concludes on November 21, 2026, in Providence, RI.
Industry Dynamics
Hoffman's path reflects the growing legitimacy of non-traditional string instruments in elite conservatory programs. This shift bridges the gap between academic folk studies and the professional commercial music industry.
Fans can purchase or stream the new album through major digital platforms starting now. Tickets for the upcoming release show at the Analog at Hutton Hotel are also available for those planning to attend in person.
The takeaway
The arrival of Horizon signals a new era for modern ukulele-focused songwriting. Listeners looking to explore the album can listen for the influence of the diverse guest performers integrated throughout the production.
What happens next
Hoffman will perform at the Analog at Hutton Hotel on November 9, 2026, followed by additional dates across the country concluding in Providence on November 21, 2026.
Further reading
Discover more new releases and touring news in the Folk section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
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