Composer and bandleader (1854–1932) whose marches take a place among the most familiar works in the history of American music. In 1892, Sousa formed his own band and toured throughout the United States and Europe, in the process becoming one of the best-known musical personalities of the day. In addition to a large body of military and band music, he also composed several operettas, the best known of which is El Capitan. Superb 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo, a three-quarter-length view of Sousa in his bandmaster’s uniform, his chest full of medals, one hand resting on a pedestal, the other, holding a conductor’s baton, on his hip, boldly signed in ink at upper right, “John Philip Sousa 97,” Sousa adding an unidentified three-measure musical quotation marked “expressive.” The very slightest hint of soiling to edges of mount (noted only for strictest accuracy), otherwise very fine, pristine condition. The appeal and clarity of the image, the flawless signature, the addition of a musical quotation, and the astounding state of preservation add up to what is undoubtedly one of the finest signed Sousa images in existence. R&R COA.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.