The sun dips low behind the bleachers at Campbell High School, and the stadium begins to hum with anticipation. The crowd gathers, chatting and scanning the field. The football players are warming up -- but for many in the stands, the real show starts at halftime.
At the far end of the field, drums begin to roll. The Campbell High School Band is ready.
Under the leadership of Director Marcus Chester and Associate Director Jimmy Jucks, the band is entering a new chapter -- one marked by energy, excellence, and explosive growth.
“Our goal is to maintain the quality of our presentations while increasing the energy of our performances,” says Chester. “We want our students -- and the community -- to feel that excitement.”
Now in their second year, Chester and Jucks are leading a transformation. Student enrollment is surging, and so is the spirit. More kids are not only joining but buying in -- committing themselves to something bigger than individual achievement.
“This year’s focus is making sure the students know they are as amazing as we know they are,” says Jucks. “We want everyone to see a difference between our first year and this one.”
What makes the Campbell Band stand out isn’t just the sound -- it’s the soul.
“We have a melting pot of personalities and backgrounds,” Chester explains. “We’re building bonds through music, and all the students work hard to present something meaningful both on and off the field.”
Jucks adds, “Historically, the Campbell Band has shown that quality will always overcome quantity. We’re continuing that tradition, but with our own flair.”
The experience reaches far beyond halftime shows. During football games, the band keeps the crowd energized from the stands -- firing off the fight song after a touchdown and lifting spirits with every beat.
But it’s not just about school pride. Band, they say, is where life skills are forged -- discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience.
“Marching band helps students develop self-efficacy, time management, and self-discipline,” says Chester. “Those traits carry into every part of their lives.”
“From pushing yourself to working with others and learning from criticism, the personal benefits go well beyond music,” adds Jucks.
Of course, that kind of growth starts early. Campbell High’s band program is fueled by three feeder middle schools: Campbell Middle School, Griffin Middle School, and Pearson Middle School. The directors have built strong relationships with these programs to ensure a smooth transition for young musicians.
“You show me a great high school band, and I’ll show you a great feeder program,” Jucks says. “Middle school band lays the foundation.”
Ashley Cole, Director of Bands at Griffin Middle, shares in the excitement. “The Campbell Band program is gaining momentum in a very exciting way,” she says. “Mr. Chester and Mr. Jucks are bringing their vision to life, and I couldn’t be more optimistic.”
At Campbell Middle, Olivia Kesler has a front-row seat to the transformation. “It overwhelms me with joy to see my former students having more meaningful and mature musical experiences,” she says. “Mr. Chester and Mr. Jucks are creating a community and culture that’s drawing more students to the program.”
Events like 8th Grade Night, the Smyrna Tree Lighting, and joint concerts give middle school students a glimpse into their future -- and a reason to keep playing.
To any student unsure about continuing band in high school, both directors offer the same advice: try it.
“High school band is not like middle school,” says Jucks. “There are so many more performance opportunities -- you might regret not giving it a chance.”
“Being part of the high school band is an experience you don’t want to miss,” adds Chester. “If you put in the effort, you won’t be disappointed.”
The band’s rising popularity has created new challenges -- namely, keeping up with the demand for instruments, uniforms, and equipment. But the directors believe the solution starts with community involvement.
“Our program is growing quickly, and we could use help replacing worn equipment and acquiring materials to support that growth,” Chester says. “Students love performing for a crowd. When people show up, it motivates them.”
“Monetary donations are always appreciated,” Jucks adds with a grin, “but seeing folks in the stands at performances? That tells the students their hard work matters.”
Despite the hustle and hard work, the directors say the real payoff comes in the moments that matter -- when the music hits, and everything just clicks.
“It’s that ‘A-ha’ moment,” Chester says. “When students realize they’ve created something magical -- it’s incredible to watch.”
For Jucks, it was the end-of-year banquet. “Sitting there, looking back at everything we overcame, seeing the excitement in the students for what’s ahead -- it reminded me of why I do this.”
So this year, when you hear the beat of the drumline or see the flash of uniforms under Friday night lights, take a moment to cheer a little louder. The Campbell High School Band isn’t just keeping tempo -- they’re leading a movement. And it’s one the whole community can march behind.
Support the Sound of Campbell
The Campbell High School Band is growing—and your support makes all the difference.
Donations help fund instruments, uniforms, and essential equipment.
Attending performances shows our students just how much this community values their talent and hard work.
To contribute or learn more, visit: www.campbellbands.com
Let’s help keep the music—and momentum—going strong.
“We’re building a band family—where every student feels seen, supported, and part of something powerful.” -- Marcus Chester