History
Our band program, as did most of the band programs in Eastern NC, began in the late 1970's. During the first few years we experienced many different directors. In the Fall of 1986, Lynn Dale became the director and under his direction the band program gained local notoriety. Winning many local and regional contest, as well as consistently placing students in all district and all state band, the Camden Bands became known as one of the premiere band programs for small 1A high schools.
After Lynn Dale, the band program 2 different directors over the course of a three years (Greg Lawrence & Fred Yakonow). Rose Taylor began her first tenure as director of bands for grades 6-12. During her time the band program at CMS and CCHS, the band grew dramatically. Rose Taylor left to pursue her master's degree and was followed by Steven Kelly. Upon Mr. Kelly's departure Leigh Morgan was hired to serve at CMS and CCHS. Rose Lee returned to Camden as the director of bands for Camden Middle School where she still serves. Leigh Morgan left Camden to return to her alma mater of Gates County High School in the Summer of 2009.
Chris Whitehurst, a 1993 graduate of Camden High School, returned home to take over the high school program and is currently serving as the director of bands.