CULLMAN, Ala. – Band students all across Cullman County have been working hard from early mornings to late at night, marking drill sets, memorizing music and mastering techniques during their summer band camps. Each school has its unique approach to learning, but high energy and commitment to the art are shared across the county.
Cullman High School
Under the direction of Christopher Smith, Cullman High’s Bearcat Marching Band debuted a sneak peek of its 2025 halftime show during a recent camp preview on July 18. The theme, “Metallica: Seek and Destroy,” will feature popular tunes such as “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Wherever I May Roam” and many more.
Even though some had only a week of marching experience, the students impressed the audience with their quick progress and enthusiasm. This year’s show will be both dynamic and bold, and the preview closed with the band performing favorite stand tunes to energize families and fans for the upcoming football season.
Holly Pond High School
Under the direction of Steven Porter, Holly Pond’s Bronco Band ran a rigorous 8 a.m.-8 p.m. schedule during “drill week,” placing the show on the field and building stamina.
“We played through the first two songs already on the second day,” Porter said. “The kids are terrified of the 8 to 8s at first, but at the end of the season, it’s all worth it.”
Porter said he expects the whole show to be performance ready by the school’s football opener on Aug. 15 – a jamboree game against J.B. Pennington.
Vinemont High School
At Vinemont High, Skylar King is led students through a two-part band camp: a mini camp focused on music and fundamentals, followed by a full camp packed with drill and marching practice.
This year’s show, “Out of This World,” features a creative mix of classical and modern music, including “Also sprach Zarathustra,” “Black Hole Sun,” “Mad World” and “Total Eclipse of the Heart.”
King praised the band’s strong school spirit and community support.
Good Hope High School
Jeremy McFall is stepping into his first year at Good Hope with a rock-themed show titled “Rock U,” short for Rock University.
“It’s aggressive, intense and in your face — everything rock and roll should be,” McFall said.
With the drill set to begin this past week, McFall praised the band’s positive chemistry and commitment. Good Hope’s first public performance will be at its Aug. 29, home game against West Point.
Fairview High School
Band Director Nathan Kilgo is beginning his 28th year at Fairview. Last week, he oversaw the integration of drill and music after beginning with fundamentals the week prior.
“This group is very enthusiastic,” Kilgo said. “Everybody wants to be here.”
The Aggies’ first game appearance is scheduled for Aug. 22, at Fultondale.
West Point High School
Now marching 89 students from grades seven through 12, Band Director Thad Walker is leading the West Point Warrior Band into its most theatrical show yet.
Titled “Eternal,” the show explores enduring themes through music such as “Bring Me to Life” (Evanescence), “Lovely” (Billie Eilish), “A Million Dreams” and “Thanks for the Memories” (Fall Out Boy).
“Our band is tight,” Walker said. “Everybody has a place and a role on Friday night.”
Hanceville High School
Hanceville’s show this year is titled “It’s Alive,” a creative production inspired by the Frankenstein story.
“We’re kind of taking the Frankenstein concept and creating a monster throughout our show,” said Band Director Jesse James.
The musical selections range from classical pieces to “Pure Imagination” and close with “Bring Me to Life” by Evanescence.
“At the end of the show, our monster comes alive — and the kids are loving it so far,” James said.
Cold Springs High School
At Cold Springs, Zach O’Bryant is directing a show called “Super Bowl Show Stoppers”—a crowd-pleasing medley of iconic Super Bowl halftime hits.
Music from Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Prince and more will fill the field, performed by a young and determined group.
“Half of our band is seventh and eighth graders,” O’Bryant said, “but they are putting in the work. The heat is bad this year, but they’re pushing through.”
Expect loud notes, proud moments and unforgettable Friday nights across Cullman County this fall!
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