STANLEY tells it all – Studying Sousa: marches – military or civil?
Studying the scores of John Philip Sousa’s marches, I started looking for evidence of the military element in them. One of the many details which struck me, is this often used connotation. Therefore, I wondered which march is military by nature and intent and which is civil? The stories behind them signal there are more of the latter than of the former, but the question remains: does it show in the scores?
We are talking about composition techniques, I know. Let’s have a look at the basics of a composition. There is a first theme, followed by a second, third, etc. However, the first theme is preceded by the introduction which has a special function. This is where the composer raises a question, which is answered by the first theme.
Hearing the introduction to ‘Semper Fidelis’ my legs respond the same way as when I was at the Military Tattoo in Delft, The Netherlands, at 4 years of age. Even at my current age, I simply want to start marching and yes, this remains all through the entire composition. Call me crazy? Well, let’s just say it’s me. In my view this is probably the most military march of Sousa’s entire repertoire and a very fine composition at that.
However, hearing the introduction to ‘The Liberty Bell’ does not bring the same response. There I hear a story being told at which I need to listen. On the other hand, the introduction to ‘The Washington Post’ brings yet a more brisk energy while this is a civil march as well. At the same time ‘The Thunderer’ brings the most remarkable question we can imagine as used for an introduction: a dominant major scale. This is a question which needs to be answered.
When we were asked to perform with the Sousa Tribute Band at the opening of the Michiel de Ruyterbridge at Urk, The Netherlands, on 1 June 2023, I used this introduction in between the speeches and it worked wonderfully. It also brought a smile to the faces of all present especially when, after the last speech, we played this march to the end. An example of a civil march with military elements and dito sound to it.
Than there is a musical challenge called ‘The Stars and Stripes Forever’ which obviously shows both military and civil elements as well. The best of the best compositions and yes, after a very strong introduction this march brings forth the most beautiful of melodies. A solid gemstone.
So, no conclusive answer, yet!
Stanley E. van Wel MM – Music Director
Posted on LinkedIn.com dated 19 December 2023