My Favorite March

John Philip Sousa personified turn-of-the-century America, the comparative innocence and brash energy of a still new nation. His ever touring band represented America across the globe and brought music to hundreds of American towns. John Philip Sousa, born 6 November 1854, reached this exalted position with startling quickness. In 1880, at the age of 26, he became conductor of the US Marine Band. In twelve years the vastly improved ensemble won high renown and Sousa's compositions earned him the title of “The March King”. Sousa went one better with the formation of his own band in 1892, bringing world acclaim.

The Free Lance March (1906)
This classic and sophisticated march by John Philip Sousa is unique from the standpoint of opening in 6/8, then switching to 2/4 midway. Drawn from his popular operetta The Free Lance, The Free Lance March is another of Sousa’s great medley-marches. Each section of the march is a different number from the show. Each had lyrics in the production, some of them tongue-twisting. The last trio tune is the rousing finale On to Victory!

I love this music. I feel uplifted when I listen to this music. It is this “Free Lance March” to recommend in Sousa music.