John Philip Sousa Flashcards, test questions and answers

Discover flashcards, test exam answers, and assignments to help you learn more about John Philip Sousa and other subjects. Don’t miss the chance to use them for more effective college education. Use our database of questions and answers on John Philip Sousa and get quick solutions for your test.

What is John Philip Sousa?

John Philip Sousa is one of the most iconic figures in American music. He was a composer and conductor who wrote some of the most recognizable pieces in the country’s history, such as The Stars and Stripes Forever and The Washington Post March. He was also the leader of his own band for nearly 50 years, performing at concerts, military parades, and other national events.Born in 1854 to a Portuguese immigrant family living in Washington D.C., Sousa began to play music from a young age. He was taught to play several instruments at home before joining a U.S Marine Corps band at age 13. After leaving the Marines in 1875, he became conductor of the United States Marine Band and began writing marches for them which earned him fame across America and Europe. During this time he also wrote several operettas which were performed on Broadwaythe most famous being El Capitan (1896). In addition, he led his own ensemblethe Sousa Bandfor four decades until his death in 1932 at age 78 after suffering from pulmonary edema.Sousa’s compositions are still widely celebrated today with numerous tributes held each year around the world including performances of The Stars and Stripes Forever during presidential inaugurations throughout history.