New Sousa Band Recreates The 'March King' At Stagg This Thursday

PALOS HILLS, IL -- Keith Brion and the New Sousa Band will perform an an exclusive, one-night only concert this Thursday, Dec. 20, at Stagg High School. This rousing performance of military marches by America’s “March King” John Philip Sousa starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are only $15 each, and can be purchased online in advance, or at the door.

The New Sousa Band, established in 1979, is a realization of director Keith Brion's dream to reincarnate the Sousa Band and once again tour America's towns and cities. The musicians of the New Sousa Band are chosen for their ability to transmit the original style, spirit and ensemble sound of Sousa's Band. They are selected from major orchestras, military bands, university faculties and freelance musicians. The band wears authentic replicas of the original 19th century Sousa Band uniforms. Brion and his New Sousa Band are officially and exclusively endorsed by John Philip Sousa, Inc., John Philip Sousa IV, president.

Brion and his band has appeared as a frequent guest conductor with nearly all of America's major symphony orchestras and professional bands. Brion has been a frequent guest conductor of professional bands among which are the Stockholm Symphonic Wind Orchestra, New York City's Goldman Band, the California Wind Orchestra, and the Allentown Band. He has also appeared with most of the major service bands, including the U.S. Marine Band, Army Field Band, Army Band, Coast Guard Band and the U.S. Army Band of Europe in Heidelberg, Germany.

Some of Sousa’s most recognized contributions include “Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Washington Post March” and “The Liberty Bell,” the theme song for “Monty Python’s Flying Circus.”

Stagg High School is located at 8015 W. 111th Street in Palos Hills. For more information contact Bob Mecozzi, director of bands, by email at rmecozzi@d230.org.

Photo: John Philip Sousa | Nara Archives/Shutterstock