Sousa Season Opener

“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band invites you to attend the 20th Sousa Season Opener to kick off the 2026 concert season! Enjoy the many sides of John Philip Sousa with a program that puts his musical versatility on full display: concertgoers can expect to hear iconic, beloved marches as well as lesser known yet exceptionally delightful Sousa pieces. Also known as “The March King,” Sousa served as the Marine Band’s 17th Director from 1880-92, and his standard of excellence is still woven into the fabric of the band to this day. To add to the excitement of the performance, Col John R. Bourgeois, USMC (Ret.), Director Emeritus, will conduct two selections, including Jacques Offenbach’s Galop from Geneviève de Brabant, which is credited as the melodic origin of The Marines’ Hymn!