October 19, 2026 — "This year is a big change," said Campbell High School senior Carrington Hughes. "This is something that’s never been seen at this school before." 

A new sound and a renewed energy are transforming the Campbell High School band program, and students are ready for everyone to hear it. Known as Legion of Boom, Campbell’s band is embracing an exciting new direction designed to energize football games, unite the student body, and build school pride throughout the community. The change is already drawing attention from students, school administrators, and the broader band community.

For Hughes and other veteran band members, the transformation has been especially meaningful. The traditionally styled program has evolved with a bolder sound, stronger crowd engagement, and a growing reputation. Students say the new direction has helped them connect with audiences and showcase the work they put into their performances.

"It has to be the energy," said junior Royal Randolph IV about what stands out the most to him about the new direction. "It's been able to hype the crowd up more and bring more enthusiasm to our performances."

Students Lead the Change

Students initiated the new direction. According to Band Director Marcus Chester, students voted to try something different, creating an opportunity to build a new identity for the program.

Chester and Asistant Band Director Jimmy Jucks developed the Legion of Boom concept to support the students' vision, raise the excitement level at football games, and strengthen school pride.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. School administrators and students have embraced the change, and community members are helping to spread the word. Videos of Legion of Boom performances shared on YouTube are also helping to showcase the band to a wider audience.

For student Makenzie Williams, the experience has been about growing together as a team. She said the band continues to develop and improve each day while building excitement for the season ahead.

Fellow student Imani Welch also sees the new direction as an important step forward, describing the changes as a "major shift" for Campbell's band program.

More Than Music

While the Legion of Boom is working to make its mark through energetic performances, students emphasize that the band is about much more than what happens on the field.

For first-year member Palmer Cook, joining the program has already made a lasting impact. Cook praised fellow band members for their support and encouraged prospective members to bring confidence and enthusiasm while remaining open to learning.

"This band program is not just something that brings about so much goodness in the world; it's also like a family," Cook said.

That sense of belonging is central to the experience. Students know that band can be challenging, particularly during summer practices, but agree that persevering is worth it. Their message to anyone considering joining is simple: You do not have to arrive with every skill already mastered. A willingness to learn, work hard, and support teammates is all that is needed.

"It is definitely a lot during the summer, but keep pushing through," Cook said. "Give your all. Have pride in every rep."

The Boom Is Just Beginning

With the new season well underway, Campbell's band leaders are already looking toward the future. The Legion of Boom is recruiting new members for next school year, with spring auditions planned for drum majors, the drumline, and the Sapphire dance team.

Students interested in joining can begin by enrolling in band class and attending summer camp, where they can learn the program's expectations and how they can contribute to the team.

The goal is to keep building momentum, expand the band's reach, and establish Campbell as a standout in the local marching band community. For the students who are already part of the movement, the excitement comes from knowing they are helping create something new.

"It has been an amazing start, and I'm so glad I joined because we all get to make a name for ourselves," Palmer Cook noted about his involvement with Legion of Boom.

"Band will change your life," Royal Randolph IV agreed. "Joining the Boom will be something you'll never regret."