The Westview High School Band has been captivating audiences this fall with their powerful field show featuring music from Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens. This season holds special significance, as it marks the final year for Band Director Mike Tucker, who will retire at the end of this school year with a staggering 49 years in education - 33 of those in service to Weakley County Schools.
The show, based on the legendary score by John Williams, has quickly proven to be one of the most challenging productions Tucker has ever directed. “In all my years working with students, this is the toughest music I’ve put in front of them,” he said. “Couple that with the fact that it’s already challenging to both play and march simultaneously,” he said.
Tucker, who had long planned to feature Star Wars music in his final year, explained his philosophy for band performances. “A halftime show needs to be educational, entertaining, and competitive,” he said. “We’ve never done a Star Wars show before, and I wanted to make sure we did it justice, both musically and in terms of difficulty.”
The rigorous practice schedule has tested the students’ endurance, as they’ve battled through grueling heat and long rehearsals. With one-third of the 62-member band made up of freshmen, the demands have been particularly intense. Despite these challenges, Tucker said the students have risen to the occasion. “They’ve grown so much over the past few months,” he noted. “Every practice, they push themselves to get better, whether it’s mastering a tricky musical passage or perfecting their positions on the field. It’s an ongoing process to improve every single day.”
Assistant Band Director Jennifer Cupples echoed Tucker’s sentiments about the dedication required. “Being a part of the band requires a unique set of talents,” she said. “These students aren’t just musicians; they’re athletes, performers, and team players. The ability to execute complex music while maintaining precise formations on the field takes an incredible amount of coordination and focus. They work hard and it shows.”
The students have also had to contend with the sweltering temperatures typical of a Tennessee fall. The faculty and administrative team have carefully monitored conditions to ensure the safety of the students during outdoor rehearsals. “It’s been hot—unforgiving at times—but the students have shown resilience,” said Tucker. “They keep going because they know the end result will be worth it.”
The band has already performed at several football games and two successful competitions this season. At South Gibson on September 21, they brought home the 3rd place Color Guard award. This past Saturday, September 28, they attended a competition in Gosnell, Arkansas, where they earned 2nd place in Color Guard, 2nd place in Percussion, 2nd place Overall in their Class, and 2nd place Overall at the Contest. Baritone player Nicholas Edwards brought home the contest’s Best Soloist award. Along with more game performances, the group’s fall schedule includes competing on October 5 in Jonesboro, Arkansas; October 12 in McKenzie, Tennessee; and October 26 in Paragould, Arkansas.
As the band continues to prepare, Tucker praised the team dynamic. “Band is such a team effort,” he said. “Every student has to pull their weight for it to come together. They’ve learned a lot in these past weeks, and it’s amazing to see how far they’ve come.”
Assistant Director Cupples also reflected on what it has been like working with Tucker during this final season. “Mr. Tucker has been a tremendous mentor and leader,” she said. “His dedication to the students and the program is unmatched. I’ve learned so much from him, and I know the students feel incredibly fortunate to have had him as their director.”
Director of Schools Jeff Cupples commended the band’s efforts this year and reflected on Tucker’s legacy. “The Westview Band has demonstrated excellence year after year, and this season is no different,” he said. “Mr. Mike Tucker’s influence on our students and the community over the past three decades has been profound. We are extremely proud of the band’s accomplishments and grateful for his many years of service.”
While the fall field show is a significant part of the band’s schedule, the students are also preparing for a major performance this spring in Washington, D.C. “It’s a huge opportunity for the band, and it’s something they’ve been working hard toward,” said Tucker. “It’ll be a fantastic way to round out the year.”
As Tucker and the senior band members experience their “year of lasts,” he said it’s the students he will miss the most. “I’ve had the best kids in the world to work with, and that’s what makes this job so rewarding,” he said. “It’s been fun - and that’s what I’ll carry with me.”
