The Orchestra program was first introduced to Cadillac Area Public Schools in the 2000-2001 school year. CAPS is fortunate to have the only 6th-12th grade String Orchestra program in a 40 mile radius!

The program began in the 2000 with one class of 6th and 7th graders, taught by Mr. Mike Filkins. The program has seen a number of directors in its 25 year history, and is currently under the direction of cellist and educator Ms. Alex Bowers. 

In the current 2025-2026 school year, the program has 110 students in grades 6-12. 

This fall, CAPS Orchestras celebrates its 25th Anniversary during the 2025-2026 school year. Stay tuned for more information!

Alex Bowers has been the Director of Orchestras at Cadillac Area Public Schools since 2022. 

Ms. Bowers grew up in Grand Rapids and began studying the piano at the age of 8. She joined her school's orchestra program in 6th grade, learning to play the violin and cello. Ms. Bowers studied cello under Dr. Pablo Mahave-Veglia at Grand Valley State University. 

After graduating from GVSU with a Bachelor of Music Education and a minor in English, Ms. Bowers moved to Cadillac, where she lives with her 3 cats and 2 lizards, to teach 6-12th grade String orchestra and 9th grade English at CAPS. 

Ms. Bowers presently directs the Mackinaw Trail Middle School 6th grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade orchestras, as well as the Cadillac High School Symphony Orchestra. 

Ms. Bowers is an active performer and private instructor. She has performed with the Holland Symphony Orchestra and currently performs as principal cellist in the Cadillac Area Symphony Orchestra. Ms. Bowers also performs with the Cadillac Community Big Band on double bass. 

Contact information:

alex.bowers@cadillacschools.org