The Greater Philadelphia Illini Club had the honor of hosting Gary Smith at a recent function.  The former Director of the Marching Illini talked to members at a dinner at Michael’s Deli in King of Prussia on Thursday, June 18, 2009.  Smith is Associate Director of Bands, Emeritus and the President of Smith Walbridge Clinics & Band Products.  Smith shared his experiences at Illinois as well as the amazing history of the Marching Illini.

Smith came to the University of Illinois in the mid 1970’s.  He is responsible for changing the marching band from a social club into a highly respected group.  Smith also developed marching drills and music arrangements that are still seen and heard today.   As director, Smith helped students develop half-time shows that entertained everyone and kept fans in their seats until after the performance.

The Marching Illini is actually a one hour credit course.  However, on Game Day Saturdays, members put in 18 hour days.  That being considered, among the 285 members on the field and up to 60 alternates, every year you’ll see more seniors than any other class.  It’s something that makes Smith proud.  Smith also is amazed with how smart Illinois musicians are. In fact, there usually are more Engineer majors in the band than any other major at the university. Smith also incorporated a “school comes first policy.”  Marching Illini members can take academic leave at any time.  Smith thinks that’s why members keep coming back.

Smith also shared insights into why the Marching Illini is what it is today.  Smith incorporated the flag corps and the Illinettes into the band.  “My mother was a dancer,” said Smith.  That’s why all of his marching bands had to have dancers.  Smith created the pregame show, making sure to include a patriotic medley to honor our country and our servicemen and women.

Smith calls Illinois, “the birthplace of college bands.”  Smith says the Marching Illini is the first college band to spell out a school letter, the first band to sing acapella and the first school to sport a huge flag. 

Members of the Greater Philly Illini Club also learned about the transformation of the former Chief Illiwek from a mascot into an honored symbol.  You can thank Gary Smith for that.  Smith talked about how he opened tryouts to all students and limited the appearances of the Chief to only band functions. 

With Smith in retirement, he has been able to visit with alumni throughout the country.  Smith says it’s something he’s truly enjoyed.  Back in Champaign, Smith says the Marching Illini will be getting new uniforms this fall, the first new set of duds in 30 years.  Here’s hoping that’s the only change we’ll see with Gary Smith’s legacy.