Bradley Thomas a Harlan County High School senior always wanted to be part of a band, but never did he think he would win an award for his musical accomplishments.

Berea College held an awards ceremony in October honoring high school seniors of limited economic means who have had noteworthy achievements in several different fields of study. The Pinnacle Scholarship award was created to honor high school seniors who excel in science, community service and music.

Thomas said he was surprised when he found out he had been nominated by his band teacher, David Shepherd.

Thomas said he had always wanted to be part of a band like this but in grade school one was not offered. When he got in high school Thomas decided he would pursue his love for music and joined the band.

“Music is great, you just have to do it and have fun with it,” said Thomas.

Winners of the Pinnacle Scholars award received a paid overnight accommodations for Thomas and two guests, along with a tour of Berea College so the winners could meet the faculty and students currently attending.

“It’s important that we encourage and celebrate the achievements of the youth in our region, especially in the areas of science, music and service that may be vulnerable to cost-cutting measures by school districts in challenging economic times,” said Luke Hodson, the Berea college director of admissions operations.

“We hope this recognition and experience at Berea will inspire these students to continue to excel in these areas of interest.”

Thomas was honored, along with the other winners of the Pinnacle Scholar Awards, at a special luncheon and awards ceremony at Berea College where they were presented with their Pinnacle award.

Thomas said his plans, after high school, no matter what would involve music somehow.

“My initial plans are for engineering, but if for some reason that doesn’t work, music would be what I go for,” Thomas said. “ Somehow music will still be there in my life, maybe off to the side somewhere.”

Thomas said he would always play even if it was just at home in his spare time. Thomas said he has always had the musical bug, and will keep learning new music.

The Pinnacle award explains that in order to be nominated that recipients must demonstrate significant accomplishments in one area of their criteria. Musical accomplishments include excellence in either solo or ensemble work in either vocal or instrumental music, or both. Contributions can also be in performance, writing, arrangement, or production of music. All winners must demonstrate a passion for music and bringing to the lives of others, stepping to their own beat and possessing the soul of a musician.

Thomas said to win an award in something that is so much fun and enjoyable to do is awesome.

“I was so surprised and excited. The fact is I don’t think I’m that great in music, but I love playing music. For a college to give me such an award for playing music is just awesome.”

Thomas was part of a 123 students seniors named as Pinnacle Scholars.