CLINIC
Information
The 6-day program with a staff of over 28 instructors enables us to not only train great teachers, conductors, and leaders but also drum majors capable of serving as assistant band directors. The power of positive attitudes, high energy, and natural enthusiasm is integrated into the Smith Walbridge “System,” often imitated, but never matched.
Live the legacy
SWC is the nation’s first drum major camp, founded in 1952. There is a consistent teaching philosophy which is preserved year after year.
Build your foundation
Based strongly in fundamentals, we guide students to develop their own unique style compatible within their bands. The result is individual creativity, identity, and diversity.
CURRICULUM
Conducting
New and returning students will learn conducting concepts with three levels of curriculum from beginner to advance. Score study is incorporated into conducting session taught by collegiate professors in music education.
Teaching
Through every portion of our clinic, students learn the process of teaching. They have hands on experience teaching in small group settings, receive individual feedback, review videos of their own teaching moments after executing it, and grasp how to better communicate with their peers.
Marching
With three styles of marching - Traditional Chair Step, Corps Glide Step, and Mace Glide Step - students will be taught the fundamentals of drill design and execution. Cleaning drill in large and small settings with a full band and break-out squads.
Performance
All students are encouraged to bring their individual style and personality to their performances with salutes and showmanship opportunities. Squads will also collaborate to write drill and compete in squad comps.
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
6:45 AM | Breakfast |
8:00 AM | Band Lab Field Rehearsal |
10:00 AM | Squad Practice |
11:00 AM | Conducting Class |
12:00 PM | Lunch |
1:30 PM | Conducting Class |
2:45 PM | Break-Out Classes |
3:45 PM | Squad Competition |
5:00 PM | Dinner |
6:30 PM | Full Group Activities |
8:30 PM | Recreation Time |
11:00 PM | Lights Out |
CLINICIANS
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Barry Houser
Barry L. Houser is Associate Director of Bands, Director of the Marching Illini, Director of the Fighting Illini Athletic Bands, and Clinical Associate Professor in the School of Music at the University of Illinois. His responsibilities include conducting a variety of concert ensembles, the overall administration of the Athletic Bands consisting of the Volleyball Band, the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Bands, and serving as the director of the 375-member Marching Illini. He teaches undergraduate courses in instrumental .....
LEAD ON
The World Stage
Drum Majors! The Macy's Great American Marching Band is looking for an SWC Drum Major to lead their band this Thanksgiving in New York! Each year, because of your stellar look, prideful spirit, and habit of excellence, Macy's has asked Smith Walbridge Clinics to select a Drum Major for their feature band in the Thanksgiving Day Parade! It is truly an honor to participate, and the SWC Drum Majors have always delivered!
CONTACT us for details!
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.
Curriculum Performance
At the end of the week, our student demonstrate their skills for family and friends. This gives you a brief glimpse into our curriculum and skills described above.
2024 Drum Major Clinic Session I Closing Ceremonies
2024 Drum Major Clinic Session I Closing Ceremonies
2024 Closing Ceremonies: The History of Smith Walbridge Clinics
2024 Closing Ceremonies: The Philosophy of Smith Walbridge Clinics
2024 Closing Ceremonies: Drum Major Clinic Session I | National Anthem
CLOSING
Ceremonies
For parents, friends, and directors, closing ceremonies will be held at O’Brien Field on the Eastern Illinois campus. Come and enjoy the performance and celebration of awards! Our in-house photography team will capture the moments and release all photos, free of charge, to remember the special day!
Drum Major Session 1
July 18, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Drum Major Session 2
July 25, 2025 at 9:00 AM