In 2025, Music for All celebrates a monumental milestone: its 50th anniversary and that of its flagship program, Bands of America. What began in 1975 as a small but ambitious organization called Marching Bands of America (MBA) has grown into one of the most influential forces in music education, touching the lives of millions of students, educators, and families across the nation.

I, Debbie Laferty Asbill, Acting CEO and Executive Vice President, Marketing and Communications, came to work for Bands of America in the northwest Chicago suburbs in 1985, just out of college. We ran a single-digit number of Bands of America Regional Championships, a two-day Grand National Championship, and two-week-long summer camps for marching band students and band directors – one in Whitewater, Wisconsin, and one in San Marcos, Texas. I was not thinking at the time of what my future in the organization might be, but it turned out to be my life’s work. 

Mallory Thompson, conductor of Music for All’s Honor Band of America (2023 & 2003), here with some members of the 2003 band.
Larry McCormick (left) in the nearly-completed Hoosier Dome, Indianapolis, Indiana. 
Marian Catholic High School, IL, drum major Kelly Cooper in the RCA Dome, with it’s icon pressurized roof. Kelly is a 20-year band director in Illinois and was a recipient of Music for All’s Revelli Scholarship for music education majors as a senior in high school.

The Early Days: Marching Bands of America 

Founded in 1975, Marching Bands of America was created with a singular vision: to elevate the artistry and performance of high school marching bands. Founded by Larry McCormick, it was a program of McCormick’s Enterprises. The organization quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to competitions, emphasizing not only technical precision but also creativity, showmanship, and the transformative power of music. By the early 1980s, MBA had become a “band room” name in the marching arts community, hosting regional and national competitions that set the standard for excellence. 

In 1984, the organization completely separated from its parent company, with new leadership and staff, rebranded as Bands of America (BOA), and became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, solidifying its commitment to serving students and educators. This transition marked a turning point, as BOA expanded its reach and influence, the name change opening the possibilities of serving all aspects of band programs. The annual Bands of America Grand National Championships, held in Indianapolis, became a three-day pinnacle event for high school marching bands, drawing thousands of participants and spectators from across the country. Bands of America launched the National Concert Band Festival in 1992, with guidance from luminaries including Dr. William D. Revelli, John P. Paynter, Gary Green, Richard Crain, and many others, inspired by the National Band Contest of the 1930s, which Revelli’s Hobart High School, Indiana, bands won several times. During this time, Bands of America also added programming for orchestras, at the National Festival and for students at its summer camp. 

A New Era: The Music for All Merger 

In 2003, Bands of America merged with the Music for All Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting music education in schools. This merger created a unified entity under the name Music for All, combining BOA’s expertise in marching band events with the Music for All Foundation’s broader mission of ensuring access to music education for all students. The Music for All Foundation had long been a champion of music education, working to address the challenges faced by schools, such as budget cuts and inequitable access to resources. Through research, advocacy, and community engagement, the foundation highlighted the critical role of music in fostering creativity, discipline, and emotional well-being in students. The merger allowed Music for All to expand its impact, offering a comprehensive suite of programs for school instrumental music programs under an umbrella organization also supporting advocacy and educational efforts. 

Tower of Power performing at the Bands of America Summer Camp.
Louie Bellson, performing at the Bands of America Grand National Championships in the Hoosier Dome, with The “Commandant’s Own” U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps. 

Major Events and Programs 

Over the years, Music for All has become synonymous with world-class events that celebrate and support music education. The Bands of America Grand National Championships remain the crown jewel of the organization, showcasing the best high school marching bands in the nation in a multi-day spectacle of artistry and performance. Regional BOA Championships provide opportunities for bands to compete and grow, while the Bands of America Summer Camp offers students and educators a week-long immersion in music, leadership, and personal development. Music for All hosts the Music for All National Festival, which brings together outstanding concert bands, orchestras, and percussion ensembles for a non-competitive celebration of excellence. The festival emphasizes collaboration, learning, and the joy of making music, reflecting Music for All’s belief that music education is about more than competition—it’s about building community, enriching lives, and perpetuating a life-long love of music. 

The Importance of Music for All 

As Music for All celebrates its 50th anniversary, its impact on music education is undeniable. The organization has played a pivotal role in advocating for the arts, providing opportunities for students to grow as musicians and leaders, and supporting educators in their mission to inspire the next generation. Music education is workforce development. Through its programs, Music for All demonstrates that music is a vital part of a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in all areas of life. Through its collaborations as part of the TeachMusic Coalition, Music Education Alliance, SupportMusic, and other leading national music and arts educational organizations, Music for takes an active role in ensuring students across America have access to active music-making in their scholastic environment. 

Renowned Lassiter High School, GA, band director Alfred Watkins after Lassiter’s Grand National Championship win, with his wife Rita and sons Jonathan and Christopher. 
Singer Patti Austin performing at the Music for All National Festival with the Jazz Band of America.
Dr. William D. Revelli presents an award to Jenison High School, MI, drum Major Tom Weidner at the Marching Bands of America Summer National Championships, Whitewater, WI.

Looking Ahead 

As Music for All enters its next 50 years, the organization remains committed to its mission of creating, providing, and expanding positively life-changing experiences through music for all. The golden anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but also a call to action for the future. With the continued support of its community, Music for All will continue to inspire, educate, and advocate, ensuring that music remains a vital part of our culture and our schools. As I enter my 41st year as part of the Music for All team of staff, I am happy to serve in a leadership role that allows me to continue to be part of this important work. The 50th anniversary of Music for All and Bands of America is a testament to the power of music to bring people together, to inspire greatness, and to change lives. Here’s to the next 50 years of excellence, innovation, and impact in music education!