The Bourbon County Middle School (BCMS) Band program serves as a vital starting point and a crucial developmental stage for young musicians in Paris, Kentucky. It is dedicated to instilling a love for music, teaching fundamental instrumental skills, and fostering personal growth in a supportive and engaging learning environment. The program is committed to “Musical Excellence One Note At A Time,” emphasizing hard work, dedication, high standards, and persistence.
Ty Carver is the dedicated Director of Bands at Bourbon County Middle School, a role in which he instills “Musical Excellence One Note At A Time,” guiding students in developing not only their musical talents but also vital life skills like dedication and persistence. His extensive background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Morehead State University, prior experience as an Orchestra and Band Director in Jefferson County Public Schools where he notably grew programs at Frost Academy, and significant contributions as an Assistant Director for the Bourbon County High School Marching Colonels, helping lead them to achievements such as their 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade performance.
For more information, please see this page. To visit Mr. Carver’s Dedicated website.
Core Philosophy and Goals:
The BCMS Band program aims to:
- Develop Foundational Skills: Students are introduced to the fundamentals of their chosen instruments, including proper posture, embouchure/technique, tone production, music reading, and basic music theory.
- Foster a Love for Music: Through engaging repertoire and positive learning experiences, the program seeks to ignite and nurture a lifelong passion for music.
- Instill Important Life Skills: Participation in band teaches students discipline, responsibility, teamwork, perseverance, and the rewards of dedicated effort.
- Prepare Students for High School Band: The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully transition into the Bourbon County High School band program, including the acclaimed Marching Colonels.
- Create a Supportive Community: The band hall is envisioned as a place where students feel a sense of belonging and can grow as both musicians and individuals.
Program Structure and Ensembles:
The BCMS Band program typically includes bands for different grade levels or experience levels, allowing for differentiated instruction. Students usually begin their band journey in 6th grade, with opportunities to continue and advance through 7th and 8th grade. The program represents a significant portion of the middle school population, with band classes meeting during regular school hours.
Performances and Achievements:
BCMS Band students have numerous opportunities to showcase their developing talents and celebrate their hard work:
- Concerts: The program hosts several mandatory concerts throughout the school year, typically including Fall, Winter, Pre-Assessment, and Spring concerts. These performances are considered key assessments and important milestones for the students.
- Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) Events:
- Large Ensemble Festival: The BCMS bands have a strong history of participating in the KMEA Large Ensemble Festival circuit, consistently striving for and often achieving Distinguished ratings, which reflect a high level of performance and preparation.
- Solo and Ensemble Festival: Students are encouraged to participate in the KMEA District Solo and Ensemble Festival, providing a platform for individual and small group performance and adjudication. BCMS students have a track record of earning numerous Proficient and Distinguished medals at these events.
- All-State and Honor Bands: Talented BCMS musicians regularly audition for and are selected to participate in KMEA All-District and All-State honor bands, a significant achievement recognizing their individual skill. For example, in 2025, 8th-grade trumpeter Carter Massey and 7th-grade French Horn player Alex Gerardo Perez Bernal earned chairs in the Kentucky Music Educators All-State Band.
- Recruitment Concerts: The band performs at local elementary schools as part of its recruitment efforts, inspiring younger students to join the band program and showcasing the opportunities available.
- Community Involvement: The middle school band may also participate in local events, further connecting the students with the Bourbon County community.
Leadership and Impact:
Under the direction of dedicated educators like Ty Carver (Director of Bands at BCMS and Assistant Director for the BCHS Marching Band), the program has thrived. Mr. Carver, an MSU music alumnus, brings experience from various successful band programs and a commitment to student growth. The BCMS Band program is recognized for its rigor and exceptional results, contributing significantly to the overall success and reputation of the Bourbon County Schools’ music department. It serves as a critical feeder program, developing the skills and enthusiasm that fuel the continued excellence of the high school ensembles.