First published in 1984, The System–Marching Band Methods is the quintessential marching band instruction textbook for music directors, drum majors, section leaders, colorguard, college music majors, and students. It covers all the methods for building, improving, and maintaining an outstanding marching band program. The book is co-authored by other recognized university and high school band directors, and specialists in various fields of music education.

Over the years, the book has undergone many editions. The 2019 Edition has a revamped design and contains contemporary revisions to the Leadership, Drill Design, and rewritten Marching Percussion chapters, including replaced exercises.

Register your book at MarchingBandSystem.com to download PDF documents of forms and resources that you are permitted to print and distribute in rehearsals and auditions.

Gary E. Smith’s  prolific achievements and career reputation in music education has earned him one of the highest honors of serving as president of the American Band Masters Association (ABA) for 2018.