Looking for a drill writer who gets your band's vibe and delivers on time? These five designers bring serious chops to the field, from Kentucky state champs to national finalists.
The State of Marching Band Drill Design
Marching band drill design has evolved from simple block formations to intricate, storytelling-driven visuals that demand both artistic flair and technical precision. Today's designers must balance musical phrasing, performer capabilities, and competitive strategy, all while meeting tight deadlines. The best in the field offer more than just charts—they provide a complete visual package, from concept to final polish. Whether you're a small non-competitive group or a BOA finalist, the right designer can transform your show into a cohesive, memorable experience. This roundup highlights five professionals who excel in different niches, from personal attention to innovative 3D renderings.
How We Evaluated These Designers
We looked at each designer's service scope, including drill writing, choreography, and additional visual elements. We considered how clearly they communicate their process and pricing, and how well they tailor their work to a program's specific needs. Local fit mattered too—how well they understand regional competitive circuits and can collaborate with directors. We also weighed their track record of success, from state championships to national appearances, and their responsiveness to client needs. Each designer brings a unique strength, and we've highlighted what stood out for each.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five designers, their specialties, and what they're best for.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Robert Strunks Marching Band Drill | Bands of any size needing reliable, custom drill |
| jclark design – visions set in motion | Competitive programs seeking cohesive, artistic design |
| Jim Farrell Marching Band Drill Design | Directors wanting a caring, experienced mentor |
| Steve Swetich Drill Design | Programs wanting a collaborative, relationship-driven designer |
| JJ Visual Design | Groups wanting 3D visualizations and full visual identity |
The Designers, Closer Look
#1 Robert Strunks Marching Band Drill
A screenshot of the Robert Strunks Marching Band Drill website.
Robert Strunks is a veteran drill writer who has crafted shows for bands of all sizes across all 50 states, from 10 winds to over 700 members. His mission is to create drill that is easy to teach, visually engaging, and musically aligned, with a focus on achievable staging. He promises on-time delivery and personally writes every chart, never outsourcing to ghostwriters. His packages include full PDF chart sets, individual coordinate sheets, and Pyware files in your preferred version. If you need a reliable, no-nonsense designer who can handle any band size, Robert's experience and clear communication make him a top pick.
#2 jclark design – visions set in motion
A screenshot of the jclark design website.
Justin Clark, based in Southcentral Kentucky, brings a unique blend of drill writing, visual design, and color guard choreography to the table. His work is rooted in clarity, musicality, and intentional design, creating moments that resonate emotionally with performers and audiences alike. He has worked with multiple Kentucky Music Educators Association State Champion programs and a Bands of America Class A National Champion, proving his competitive edge. Justin's journey from choreographer to full visual coordinator gives him a holistic view of how every show element connects. If you're looking for a designer who prioritizes purpose over filler and crafts unified, musical shows, Justin is your guy.
#3 Jim Farrell Marching Band Drill Design
A screenshot of the Jim Farrell Marching Band Drill Design website.
Jim Farrell brings decades of experience from his time marching with the Boston Crusaders and Santa Clara Vanguard, plus years as a director and drill designer. He promises to treat your program as if it were his own, ensuring you feel like his most important client. His services include drill design, visual instruction, and guest conducting, all delivered with a personal touch. Jim's website, jimfarrellcares, reflects his genuine commitment to your success. If you value a designer who listens and truly cares about your band's growth, Jim's experience and dedication are hard to beat.
#4 Steve Swetich Drill Design
A screenshot of the Steve Swetich Drill Design website.
Steve Swetich is a program coordinator, drill designer, and choreographer who prioritizes building productive relationships with directors and staff. He keeps his client list small and intimate, allowing him to invest more time in each group and answer the phone when you call. His drills come with detailed notes on intent, focus, and methods to manipulate the spectator's eye, offering options beyond the written chart. Steve provides UDB files, charts, coordinates, and videos, and he's flexible about the level of involvement you want from him. If you're looking for a designer who treats your program like a partnership, Steve's personal approach stands out.
#5 JJ Visual Design
A screenshot of the JJ Visual Design website.
Jeremy Jorgenson of JJ Visual Design offers custom drill design for marching bands and indoor ensembles of any size, with a focus on high-quality visuals that meet your specific requirements. He provides 3D renderings of all designs as unlisted YouTube videos, making it easy for your staff and students to visualize the show. His clients praise his creativity, logical approach, and accessibility, noting that he delivers on time. JJ Visual Design also helps develop your entire visual identity, from props to show logos, ensuring a complete package. If you want innovative design with modern tools and a responsive team, JJ Visual Design is a solid choice.
How to Choose the Right Drill Designer for Your Band
Start by assessing your band's specific needs—are you a small non-competitive group or a BOA finalist? Consider the designer's experience with bands of your size and competitive level. Look for someone who communicates clearly and is responsive to your questions, as you'll be collaborating closely. Check their portfolio and client testimonials to gauge their style and reliability. Finally, ensure they offer the services you need, whether that's drill writing only or a full visual package including choreography and 3D renderings.
Streamlining Your Design Process
Once you've chosen a designer, streamline your workflow by using project management tools like Trello or Asana to track milestones. Share your show music and concept early to give the designer ample time. Use video conferencing for regular check-ins, and leverage cloud storage for sharing files like Pyware projects and PDF charts. Many designers now provide 3D renderings or animated videos, which you can review with your staff and students to speed up learning. Automating reminders for deadlines and feedback can keep the process on track.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right drill designer is a leap of faith, but these five professionals have proven track records and unique strengths. Whether you prioritize personal attention, artistic cohesion, or cutting-edge visuals, there's a designer here for you. Take the time to reach out, ask questions, and find the one who aligns with your program's vision. Your students deserve a show that's both intentional and competitive—these designers can help you get there.