John Philip Sousa
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About
Known as the American March King, he is remembered for "The Stars and Stripes Forever." His song "Semper Fidelis" became the United States Marine Corps' official march.
Before Fame
He was leader of The President's Own band for five presidents, beginning with Rutherford B. Hayes and ending with Benjamin Harrison.
Trivia
He traveled Europe and Australia after serving as Marine Band director for 12 years. He perfected the brass instrument the sousaphone while abroad.
Family Life
His father enrolled him into the United States Marine Band as an apprentice, where he received his formal training. He married Jane van Middlesworth Bellis on December 30, 1879, and they had three children together.
Associated With
His 1893 composition "The Liberty Bell" was used as the credits theme for the classic "Monty Python's Flying Circus" TV show, which featured John Cleese.
