Symphonic Band of Suffolk: A Sousa Celebration January 18, 2009

John Philip Sousa (1854 - 1932) was an American composer and conductor known particularly for American military and patriotic marches such as 'The Stars & Stripes Forever.' By the 1930s, after leading the United States Marine Corps Band (the President's Band) for decades, he became popularly known as "The March King" and was typically referenced by his full name. The program has been selected by Dr. Peter Boonshaft as if John Philip Sousa himself was conducting. Sousa performed at the Patchogue Theatre on July 23, 1923 and a year later on June 23, 1924. The all-star symphonic band will be conducted by Dr. Peter Boonshaft who is Professor of Music and Director of Bands, director of the Hofstra University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band, Professor of conducting and music education, and Director of the graduate wind conducting program at Hofstra University.