Sousa's Band

Sousa's Band was the professional civilian ensemble formed and led by American composer and conductor John Philip Sousa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The band specialized in marches and other wind-band repertoire, featuring a bright brass and woodwind sound, disciplined ensemble playing, and brisk tempos. As a touring concert band that also made early recordings, it played a major role in popularizing the American march tradition and influencing performance standards for concert and military bands.