HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The consolidation of Christian County and Hopkinsville High School means combining not only students, but athletics and other programs including two award winning marching bands. Now known at the Christian County Tiger Band, over a hundred marching band students are preparing to take the field for band camp this summer, coming together officially for the first time.
“While we are proud of the traditions and successes that came before us, this is a unique opportunity to create something new together,” said Anthony Darnall, who was chosen as the director of bands for the new CCHS. “The students and staff have embraced that challenge, and we’re excited to build a program that honors the past while creating its own identity and traditions for future generations of Tiger Band members.”
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90s showcase theme, ending last season with a bang
Under the leadership of Darnall, the band is leaning into the fresh start with a New Kids on the Block theme for their showcase that will be performed at home football games and competitions. Their fun, upbeat music selection includes 90s boy/girl band hits from groups like N’SYNC, TLC, New Kids on the Block and more.
“We worked closely with our design team to create a show that would be entertaining for our community, exciting for our students, and unique within the Kentucky marching band landscape,” Darnall told Christian County Now. “The goal is for audiences at football games and competitions to immediately connect with the music and have fun.”
During their final season operating separately, Christian County Colonel Band’s “One Last Time” showcase earned them the 2025 KMEA Class 4A State Championship win at Western Kentucky University. The Hopkinsville High School Band of Tigers also participated in the competition with their jazz inspired showcase, placing third in KMEA Class 4A.
Leading up to practices, Darnall is focusing on students building relationships with each other, developing leadership skills and setting goals for the future. He said, “There is a lot of anticipation surrounding the start of camp, and we’re looking forward to building a strong culture and identity as the inaugural Tiger Band.”
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