Mission
The Robert C. Byrd High School Band Department is dedicated to the education of music students by offering a variety of musical opportunities. The program strives to afford every student at RCBHS the opportunity to participate and excel as a musician regardless of previous training or background. These ensembles and programs are dedicated to producing a well-rounded student who is conscientious, trustworthy, respectful, responsible, and has a positive character through musical performance, training, and community service.
Meet the Directors
Director
Mr. Tom Myers
Mr. Myers earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from West Virginia University in 2008 after completing student teaching at Bridgeport High School. Soon after, Mr. Myers traveled to Ohio University in Athens, OH where he earned a Master of Music degree in Bassoon Performance. During his time at OU, Mr. Myers taught two undergraduate classes as a graduate assistant to Dr. Matthew Morris and Dr. Jason Smith. After graduating from OU, Mr. Myers has taught in southern West Virginia, southeast Ohio, and northeast West Virginia. Prior to teaching at RCB, Mr. Myers previously held adjunct professor positions at Marietta College and West Liberty University. Mr. Myers is also a member of the 249th Army Band of the West Virginia Army National Guard and performs regularly across WV and neighboring states as a woodwind specialist.
Assistant Director
Mr. Ryan Deems
Ryan Deems is a 2011 graduate of Glenville State College in Glenville, West Virginia. While there, he was a member of marching band, concert band, concert choir, jazz ensemble, and many chamber ensembles. After graduation, he was the Band and Choir Director at Westside High School in Clear Fork, WV. Both programs grew exponentially and received Superior ratings and positive comments through his tenure. In addition to his position at RCB, Deems has served as the general music and Orchestra director at Mountaineer Middle School in Clarksburg since 2014. He currently resides in Clarksburg with his wife, Kaitlin, and two dogs, Max and Jake.