Sound Off

John Philip Sousa, the legendary 'March King', was an American composer and conductor who left an indelible mark on the late Romantic era with his stirring military and patriotic marches. Born in 1854, Sousa's compositions, such as 'The Stars and Stripes Forever', 'Semper Fidelis', and 'The Washington Post', have become synonymous with American pride and are still performed and beloved today. Sousa's career spanned continents, with his band touring both America and Europe, including prestigious performances in Vienna. His prolific output includes over 100 marches and several operettas, showcasing his versatility and mastery of both wind band and symphony orchestra arrangements. Sousa's legacy as a trombonist, composer, and conductor continues to inspire, making him one of the most renowned figures in American music history.