Elmhurst University Summer Band Concert to pay tribute to John Philip Sousa

In a costumed re-creation of a turn-of-the-20th-century band concert, the Elmhurst University Summer Band will perform a tribute to “The March King” John Philip Sousa on Wednesday, June 24.

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary this year, the concert is a celebration of Americana and will feature patriotic music, including overtures such as Franz von Suppé’s “Light Cavalry” and marches that, as Sousa once said, “will make a man with a wooden leg want to get up and march.”

Presented in the same fast-paced style used by Sousa and his famed touring band, the concert also will include an audience sing-along of old-time 1890s favorites; and the grand finale will be Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.”

Elmhurst University’s Chris O’Hara, a trumpet faculty member in the Department of Music, will perform as Sousa’s famed cornet virtuoso, Herbert L. Clarke.

Elmhurst alumna Regan Bobich will portray soprano soloist Marjorie Moody, also known as “The Lady in White,” who frequently appeared in concert with Sousa.

Deborah Peot, assistant professor of music and director of music education, will serve as the narrator and master of ceremonies.

Sousa was born Nov. 6, 1854, in Washington, D.C. At the age of 13, he planned to run away with a circus band, but his father stopped that plan by enlisting him as an apprentice musician in the U.S. Marine Band.

Sousa was appointed leader of the Marine Band when he was 25, becoming the youngest conductor ever to that position. In 1892, he formed his own touring band. The Sousa Band performed throughout the United States and abroad to standing-room-only crowds, and brought great classical music to remote areas where people had never heard a symphony orchestra before.

“A Tribute to John Philip Sousa” begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel, 190 S. Prospect Ave. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Cultural programming at Elmhurst University supports community engagement and lifelong learning, and prepares students to thrive as adaptive leaders. For more information, call the department of music at (630) 617-3515. Visit elmhurst.edu.

Elmhurst University is a leading four-year institution of higher education that seamlessly blends a liberal arts education and professional preparation to help students acquire knowledge and skills for enduring success. Founded in 1871, Elmhurst now offers more than 70 undergraduate programs of study, more than 20 graduate and certificate programs in flexible formats, and the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy for young adults with differing abilities. Elmhurst University ranks among the top 10 best regional colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report.