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John Philip Sousa was an American composer and conductor known for his military marches, and "The Stars and Stripes Forever" is one of his most famous compositions. Here are some interesting facts about Sousa and the iconic march:

1. Composition and Premiere:

   • Sousa composed "The Stars and Stripes Forever" in 1896.
   • The march was first performed by Sousa's band on May 14, 1897, in Philadelphia.

2. Inspiration:

   • Sousa wrote the march while on a voyage home from a European vacation. The inspiration reportedly came to him during the Atlantic Ocean crossing.

3. Official March of the United States:

   • In 1987, the U.S. Congress designated "The Stars and Stripes Forever" as the official national march of the United States.

4. Triton Fountain:

   • The trio section of the march is said to be inspired by the triton fountain at the Zoological Gardens in Washington, D.C., where Sousa liked to take walks.

5. Unusual Time Signature:

   • "The Stars and Stripes Forever" is notable for its unusual key changes and time signature. The trio section features a key change and is in a contrasting 6/8 time signature.

6. Memorial to Sousa:

   • There is a memorial to John Philip Sousa in Washington, D.C., which features a statue of him holding a conductor's baton. The memorial is located at the Sousa Bridge, near the U.S. Capitol.

7. Last Public Appearance:

   • Sousa made his last public appearance as a conductor on July 11, 1932, when he led "The Stars and Stripes Forever" at a rehearsal on the lawn of the U.S. Capitol.

8. Legacy:

   • Sousa is often referred to as "The March King" due to his prolific contributions to the genre. "The Stars and Stripes Forever" remains one of the most enduring and recognizable American patriotic marches.

9. Presidential Connection:

   • Sousa served as the conductor of the United States Marine Band from 1880 to 1892, and during his tenure, he played at many White House events for various presidents.

10. Recording Milestone:

    • Sousa's band made the first recording of "The Stars and Stripes Forever" in 1897. This recording was made on the newly invented Sousaphone, a type of tuba designed by and named after John Philip Sousa.

"The Stars and Stripes Forever" continues to be a symbol of American pride and patriotism, frequently performed at national events and celebrations.