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:
-
Alfred Watkins
-
Bob Medworth
-
Gary Smith
-
Barry Houser
-
Linda Moorhouse
-
Fran Kick
-
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
-
$35 for 24 Illinois Continuing Professional Development Units
-
1 Graduate credit through VanderCook College of Music (must register for credit)
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.
PRICES
Eastern Illinois University - Charleston IL
July 8th-11th, 2025
RESIDENT
Includes all instruction,
housing, and meals
(Staying with us on campus.
Most common selection.)
$425
COMMUTER
Includes all instruction, and lunch and dinner each day
$320
-
What if I arrive late?No problem! If you arrive a little later than the check-in window for your clinic, you'll report to the front desk of Taylor Hall. They will alert a member of our administrative staff, who will assist you with checking in, moving in, and getting you to your starting location for your camp!
-
Where do I park?For clinic check-in and check-out (drop off and pick-up) park for free at Taylor Hall, OR across the street at the large parking lot. Signs will indicate lots at check-in and staff members will be outside for assistance. A detailed map is in our Information Packet. If the participant has driven him/herself, staff members will show you where to park after check-in (in the lot across the street from Taylor Hall). Those who will keep their cars at the camp will get a parking pass during check-in to display in their car after they have unloaded and parked for the clinic duration. Students 18 and under turn in their keys to a locked safe for the duration of the clinic, which is held by our administrative staff. Keys are returned at check-out. Smith Walbridge will not be responsible for those who get tickets when parking in area not approved for our staff and participants.
-
Can I stay one or multiple extra nights?Early arrival or late departure situations (usually to get cheaper air fares, or to arrive in time for class) are available for $30.00 per night. This cost does not include any meals, however, meals can be purchased in the cafeteria until the meals for your camp begin. Even as an early arrival, you are "with" the clinics. Those 18 and under may not leave the dorm grounds. As a general rule, extra nights are reserved for those traveling from out of state or by public transportation. You may stay up to one night early and/or one additional night late. Extra nights are not available on or after July 25, as the dorms will be closed. Call us to make arrangements at least one week in advance.
-
What public transportation options are available?These options are included in the Information Packet and on the Transportation page. Be sure to provide your information at least 5 days in advance of travel so we can schedule arrangements to pick you up and return you to your to your stations and terminals.
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.
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.