The University of Illinois Band Clinics 1930–1954

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to trace the development and growth of the University of Illinois Band Clinics during their twenty-five-year history (1930–1954). Founded by A. Austin Harding, Director of Bands at the University of Illinois, the Band Clinics served as an important forum for the reading and performance of contest pieces and new band music during an important period in the development of the school band movement. The clinics also served as the National Band Clinics, sponsored by the National School Band Association, from 1932 until 1937. Throughout its history, the clinics expanded in scope and size to provide directors of all levels and notoriety the opportunity to gather on an annual basis to discuss current trends and teaching techniques that were important to the growth of the school band movement. Due to their success and popularity, the clinics served as an important event for the development of other band-specific conferences throughout the United States.