On This Date- Andrew Collins

On October 1st, 1880, John Philip Sousa was appointed as Director of the United States Marine Band. This was the beginning of one of the greatest eras in American March music, when Sousa composed most of his famous marches. Sousa started off as an apprentice in the Marine Band, and after learning conducting in a pit orchestra for 5 years, was ready to become the leader of the Marine Band.

To this date, Sousa marches are some of the most recognizable pieces of American Classical Literature. Sousa composed our National March ("The Stars and Stripes Forever") as well as the Official March of the United States Marine Corps ("Semper Fidelis"). Sousa also designed the Sousaphone for use in his marching band, and constructed it with help from J. W. Pepper.

Sousa's appointment to this position had a very positive impact on the American Marching music genre. While working with one of the best concert bands in the world, Sousa could test out his literature and produce the wonderfully crafted compositions that we enjoy today.

Sousa essentially created the American style of Marching music, which he was able to do from his position as head of the United States Marine Band. I myself have played two of his pieces, and I will continue to play more, as they exemplify the style and essence of the March genre. Often referred to as "The March King", Sousa's Marches will live on as long as bands are there to play them.