Instrumental Music

For the past several years, over half of the students at CCES participated in our instrumental music program!  Mr. Charles Bowling, winner of the Maryland Music Educators Association “Outstanding Teacher of the Year” Award, is the director of this very popular program.  Instrumental music instruction for almost any band or orchestra instrument (except drums) is offered to students in grades 4 and 5. Classes are taught once a week and are scheduled during school hours.  This hands-on experience teaches students basic theory, notation, and artistic criticism. The main focus is on developing individual and group skills in preparation for a limited number of performances.

Enjoy these two video recordings of the Winter Instrumental Concert! The Advanced Band and Advanced Orchestra performed beautifully under the direction of Mr. Bowling!

Contact: Charles Bowling, Instrumental Music Teacher, Charles_H_BowlingJr@mcpsmd.org 

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Charles Bowling, Jr., Instrumental Music Teacher
I was born in Durham, North Carolina and moved to Falls Church, Virginia when I was seven. In high school, I participated in the Band, as well as the Football, Cross Country, and Track teams. I still hold several school records in track. After high school, I attended the University of Maryland where I was a member of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Clarinet Choir, and the Marching Band. My junior and senior years, I was chosen to be the Drum Major of the Marching Band. I graduated in 1983 with a B.S. in Music Education.  I began teaching at CCES in 1988 and also teach at North Chevy Chase Elementary School. I have also taught at Rock Creek Forest Elementary and Woodlin Elementary schools.  When not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two children, watching sports (especially the Terps and Skins), and bowling (no joke)! Click here to check out Mr. Bowling's website for more information.