John Philip Sousa, 1900

John Philip Sousa 1900, originally uploaded by stevechasmar.

A Portuguese composer in America.

"Over a century after they were composed, the best marches of John Phillip Sousa are still fresh and uplifting. Thanks to Sousa, a master composer, American marching music is played by marching bands around the world. Two of the most well known are "Stars and Stripes Forever" and the "Washington Post March", both of which were played at President Obama's inauguration ceremony. Although these marches are often played by military marching bands, the almost circus-like quality of Sousa's best pieces ensures the atmosphere is celebratory and not pompous or threatening.

Photo by E. Chickering"