CLINIC
Information
The Directors Marching Band Clinic is comprehensive and covers a wide variety of topics designed to expand knowledge and skills for band directors of all styles and sizes of ensembles. The curriculum is appropriate for young directors looking for a “grassroots” resource, or for seasoned directors looking for new ideas.
Learn from your peers
The Directors clinic is taught by active and retired band directors that have accomplished much success in their field. Gary E. Smith heads this clinic with a lifetime of experiences and true know-how.
The big picture
Because the Directors Clinic takes place during our first week of SWC Illinois, Directors will be exposed to all aspects of our marching band clinics. Learn fundamentals from our Color Guard, Drumline & Front Ensemble and Section Leader Clinics.
CURRICULUM
Networking
Directors will be given a great opportunity to network with many of the outstanding clinicians we bring to SWC each year. past guest speakers include:
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Alfred Watkins
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Bob Medworth
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Gary Smith
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Barry Houser
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Linda Moorhouse
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Fran Kick
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Dave Morrison
Visual
Directors will learn fundamentals for Colorguard concerns, drill design techniques, modern body movement and more. learn to Identify and solve posture problems and other stylistic inconsistencies for your band.
Group Dynamic
Expand your band with strategies on recruitment, public relations, and marketing. Learn to cultivate great leaders and encourage positive attitudes using group psychology. Run effective and efficient rehearsals and help to push your band to its peak potential.
Optional Credits
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$35 for 24 Illinois Continuing Professional Development Units
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1 or 2 Graduate credits through VanderCook College of Music (Link disabled, will update Spring 2025. School credit hour fees apply)
Clinic Schedule
Below is an example of an average day schedule. For a more exact layout, go to our Information Documents page and download the PDF
7:15 AM | Breakfast |
8:30 AM | Session |
9:45 AM | Break |
10:00 AM | Session |
12:00 PM | Lunch |
1:30 PM | Session |
2:45 PM | Break |
3:00 PM | Session |
5:00 PM | Dinner |
6:30 PM | Session |
9:00 PM | Networking |
CLINICIAN
Gary Smith
From 1976 to 1998, Gary was the Associate Director of Bands at the University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign, where he conducted the nationally famous Marching Illini, Basketball Band, Symphonic Band II, and taught marching band procedures and band arranging in the School of Music. In 1988 Gary was elected to membership in the prestigious American Bandmasters Association. He continues to serve as a consultant, guest conductor, festival director, and clinician throughout the United States and the world. He is a published author in magazines and authored “The System,” a textbook used in many marching band procedure courses.
For Your Information
If you are in need or more information, please download our information PDF's for more details. If you have a question, you may want to see if there is already an answer on our FAQ page. If you are looking for transportation information, please go to our Transportation page.
ADDITIONAL OPTIONS
College Credit
Smith Walbridge Clinics partners with the VanderCook College of Music to offer 1 Graduate Credit to participants. Registration with Vandercook and more information on can be found here in spring 2025.
Illinois CPDH Credits
Smith Walbridge Clinics partners with the School of Music and the State Board of Education's vendor, Eastern Illinois University, to offer 24 Illinois CPDH credits to the participants of the Drill Design Clinic! Sign up is available for selection during the online registration process. A small administrative processing fee is required.