The United States Marine Band: Origins & Traditions
The Marine Band, the first musical ensemble to perform at the White House, has provided a continual opportunity for presidents...
Main Content
On July 11, 1798, President John Adams approved legislation that officially brought "The President's Own" United States Marine Band into being, making the Marine Band America's oldest professional musical organization. At its origin, the fledgling band consisted of a "drum major, fife major and 32 drums and fifes." Since that time, the band has been present at many of the most memorable moments in our nation's history, including every inauguration since the time of Thomas Jefferson, the president who gave them the title, "The President's Own." Take a journey through the United States Marine Band's distinguished history and close connection to the White House.
The Marine Band, the first musical ensemble to perform at the White House, has provided a continual opportunity for presidents...
Music has been an essential part of life in the White House from the earliest days of our nation, not...
"The White House has been a showcase for the performing arts and has vividly mirrored American life from its earliest...
President and Mrs. John Adams were the first occupants of the White House in the nation’s new capital, the Ci...
Since 1798, the Marine Band's primary mission has been to provide music for the President of the United States. Whether performing...
During its first two centuries, the Marine Band has had 26 Directors. Each leader has contributed to the recognition and appreciation...
A long and distinguished association with the presidency has honored the Marine Band. There is a sense of family among...
John Philip Sousa, Director (1880-1892), brought world fame to "The President's Own." While the organization was already considered a national...
"The White House has been a showcase for the performing arts and has vividly mirrored American life from its earliest...
Many of the world's finest performing artists have shared the White House stage with the Marine Band. Great tenors and...
Hail to the Chief, with its preceding fanfare Ruffles and Flourishes, is traditionally played to announce the arrival of the...
For more than one hundred years, White House Social Secretaries have displayed a profound knowledge of protocol and society in...