Monday, May 23, 2011

John Philip Sousa and The HarpBeats

Did you know that American bandleader, John Philip Sousa, endorsed the harmonica?

Sousa was quoted on the insides of harmonica instrument boxes and advertisements across the country stating, "This instrument is the foundation for a musical career...and many boys and girls who are now learning music on the harmonica will step into the great symphony orchestras and bands of our country some day."
internet source: http://www.euxton.com/harmonica/history2.htm retrieved 7/23/2010



Did you know that Sousa wrote a march for the harmonica?

In 1930 the American band leader, John Philip Sousa (1854-1932), wrote a piece for harmonica band, titled The Harmonica Wizard. Paul E. Bierley, the author of The Works of John Philip Sousa, wrote, "Leading a harmonica band was a novel experience for Sousa when he was invited to conduct Albert N. Hoxie's fifty-two member Philadelphia harmonica band in September 1925. He was so impressed with their playing and the possibilities of the harmonica that he carried an endorsement for Hohner harmonicas in his 1928 programs and subsequently wrote this march for Hoxie's boys: The Harmonica Wizard. When the Sousa band came to Philadelphia on November 21, 1930 the mayor proclaimed the day: Sousa Day. 


"Among other events was Sousa's leading the University of Pennsylvania band, but the climax of the day was when Hoxie's boys came to the stage during the Sousa band concert and performed the new march Sousa had written for them. A special commemorative medal with the emblem of the Philadelphia Harmonica Band on one side and a tribute to Sousa on the other was presented to the march king at the close of the concert."
internet source: http://free-reed.net/history/harmonica.html retrieved 7/23/2010



John Philip Sousa and The HarpBeats

George Miklas recently purchased and acquired the band score and parts to Sousa's The Harmonica Wizard March. Would you like to feature this unique Sousa work, with a representation of the instruments as directed by Sousa himself? We intend to present the harmonica duo, performing the harmonica parts with concert band.

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Band leaders and talent buyers worldwide are encouraged to contact us via email for more information: HarpBeats@gmail.com
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