Picture Credit: Murray Independent School District/Facebook
Madisonville native Hunter Carter has been officially named the new Director of the Murray High School Tiger Band.
According to an announcement from Superintendent Dr. David Meinschien, Carter graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education from Murray State University in 2018, where he was an accomplished trumpet player, performing at the National Trumpet Competition and the International Trumpet Guild Conference. He began teaching in the Murray Independent School District in 2019 and has served in various roles, including general music teacher, Assistant Director of Bands, Choir Director at Murray High School, and Director of Bands at Murray Middle School. Currently, Carter is Director of Bands at Murray Middle School and Interim Director of Bands at Murray High School, with experience teaching multiple grade levels and leading several ensembles.
Most recently, officials noted that Carter directed the Murray High School Jazz Ensemble in a featured performance at the Kentucky Music Educators Association Conference. His ensembles have consistently received Distinguished ratings at KMEA concerts and choral assessments.
During Carter’s tenure, the Murray Tiger Band secured KMEA Class 3A State Marching Band Championships in 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025, and won Bands of America Class 1A Grand National Championships in 2021 and 2024. Most recently, the band placed third in Class 1A at the BOA Grand Nationals.
Named the 2022 KMEA First District Elementary Teacher of the Year, Carter has judged marching band and solo and ensemble events in Kentucky and Tennessee. As an active member of KMEA and NAfME, he is dedicated to fostering musical excellence and lifelong participation in the arts.
In a written statement, Carter said he’s excited to begin his new role in the Murray Independent School District. He added that the district is near and dear to his heart, and he is looking forward to the upcoming year and continuing to serve the students, families, and community.
