Charles Mekealian is a freelance music composer and former Marine Corps Musician. Raised in Sanger, California, Mr. Mekealian was inspired to pursue a career in music education and composition by his membership as a trumpet player with the Santa Clara Vanguard organization. Mr. Mekealian completed his bachelor’s degree in Music Education at San Diego State University and is a music educator in the San Dieguito Union High School District and band director at La Costa Canyon High School.

Mr. Mekealian began arranging music for marching and concert band after graduating high school in 2005. In 2007 he composed a performance chorale for the Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets that was performed at Drum Corps International Championships. From 2009 to 2012. He has also composed and arranged multiple works for the Marine Corps Bands in which he served. One of his more notable arrangements, “Mi Chiamano, Mimi,” by Giacomo Puccini, was presented at the Spirit of Rebirth concerts to commemorate the 10-year anniversary in memoriam of devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. He served as the ensemble leader and staff arranger for the Marine Corps Band New Orleans Brass Quintet. The Brass Quintet traveled across the United States performing many of his works for music students as well as military and civic ceremonies. Mr. Mekealian has had music performed by multiple music programs in California as well as several works performed by District Honor Bands in Southern California.

Currently, Mr. Mekealian resides with his wife and two daughters in San Diego, California. Mr. Mekealian is currently a staff arranger for several high school band programs in California.