This year has been a new start for band director Ty Parker. After serving as director of the Good Hope Raider Band for the last several years, the Vinemont High School and University of Alabama graduate, stepped in as West Point’s band director this year. After seeing Harmony school student being bused to West Point each morning at 7:20, he wanted to make another change.

“With only two students from Harmony participating in the band, I knew there had to be a better solution,” Parker said.

Band needed to be offered at Harmony.

After speaking with principal Kevin Sullins, it was agreed there should be a band program offered at the school. No need to bus just a few students back and forth. All students at Harmony should have the opportunity, as do all the other students at the other county schools, to participate in a band program.

“Music should be offered on campus for these students,” Parker said.

Parker said once he approached Sullins, it was already something the principal had contemplated.

“Thankfully, Superintendent Shane Barnette and principals, Heith Yearwood and Clark Farley, also agreed to a first period music class at Harmony,” Parker said excitedly.

With a bit of worry about the number of students he would have, Parker went on with the plan.

“I was beyond excited when 25 students signed up,” Parker said.

Many people played on important role in allowing the band to start up at Harmony. Elaine Wren agreed to help write grants for the newly formed program. Tiffany Whitesell, West Point’s Band Booster President, has been a tremendous help with organizing the new band room and student information at Harmony.

“Thankfully, we now have instruments for the students, music stands, and beginner books. We are working diligently to purchase percussion equipment and better sound equipment for the music room. I am very thankful for each and every student in band at Harmony School. They are amazing kids,” Parker said.

Parker had high hopes for his new program.

“I love watching their love for music grow from day to day. My ultimate goal is to have a successful band program at Harmony and eventually have the seventh- and eighth-grade students participate in the West Point Marching Band Program during after school rehearsal hours,” he said.

So many great things are happening at Harmony. Choir teacher, Heather Lynn, along with Parker, are planning a Disney-themed spring concert. With the community showing a positive reaction to the band, excitement is in the air for other programs like the choir.

“The community support is vital,” Parker said.

Students are showing excitement too.

Noah Callan, who plays saxophone, said he is really enjoying the band.

“I enjoy being in band because it allows me to meet new people. I see band as being a way to discover new experiences. I’ve always wanted to learn how to play an instrument, the experience of playing a musical masterpiece is overwhelming and that one day I will be able to play like Kenny G, all thanks to my amazing band director, Ty Parker,” Callan said.

“We are so thankful to now offer instrumental music at Harmony School,” said Principal Sullins. “Band gives the students yet another opportunity to participate in activities aside from their regular classroom studies. Harmony is a great place to learn. The faculty and staff are excited to celebrate 10 years of Harmony between the Dowling, Jones Chapel and Logan communities. We are very thankful to have Mr. Parker as our first band director. We look forward to watching the band, school, and community prosper this year and for years to come. Go Hawks.”