The Washington Post March was composed in 1889. The march was commissioned by The Washington Post newspaper for an essay contest awards ceremony. 

The march is in standard march form, with a very clear introduction, exposition, development, and recapitulation. The melody is extremely catchy and memorable, as it has stood the test of time. The march is full of clever, lively rhythms and energizes the listeners and the conductor himself/herself. The Washington Post March is a piece of music that celebrates the American spirit. The march is full of energy and vitality, and it is a reminder of the country’s pioneering spirit. This Sousa March is a celebration of the American people and serves as a reminder of the country’s diversity and strength. 

John Philip Sousa was an arranger, a composer, a conductor, a businessman, and a patriot. Although respected for all his musical achievements, he is particularly honored for his marches and his concert bands. His cornet soloist, Herbert L. Clarke once wrote that “in addition to his March King title, Sousa should have been called King of the Concert Band.” He composed 136 military marches, remarkable for their rhythmic and instrumental effects. Sousa also served as the 17th Director of “The President’s Own” from 1880-1892. The most famous director of the band, he wrote the national march, “Stars and Stripes Forever” and the official march of the Marine Corps, “Semper Fidelis.” In 1976, Sousa was enshrined in the Hall of Fame for Great Americans in a ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

Program note researched and written by Elisabeth Jackson