Elementary/primary education Composer of the Week presentation featuring the March King, John Philip Sousa

1. The March King John Philip Sousa

2. Birth/Death Dates Born: November 6, 1854Died: March 6, 1932 Birthplace/Hometown Born: Washington, D.C. Died: Reading, PA Nationality American Style/Period Romantic 1820-1910 Basic Information

3. Interesting Facts Sousa conducted the Marine Band for 12 years, serving 5 Presidents. Also known as “The President’s Own,” the Marine Band became a top level military band under Sousa, making him one of America’s most respected conductors and composers. Known as “The March King,” Sousa composed over 100 marches, in addition to other pieces. In 1893, Sousa worked in with J.W. Pepper to create a marching tuba. Dubbed a sousaphone, this tuba could be played in a standing or sitting position with the bell positioned to project the music over the band.

4. Famous Works Stars and Stripes ForeverOn Christmas Day 1898, Sousa composed “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” which eventually became the U.S. national march. Washington Post Semper Fidelis El Capitan The Thunderer