The performing style that created the Sousa Sound and made his music pre-eminent in the golden age of bands is revealed in this thought-provoking exploration by Keith Brion, founder and conductor of his own New Sousa Band. The band was formed in 1986 for a nationally televised PBS special, The New Sousa Band on Stage at Wolf Trap. It has since toured in every section of the United States and performed overseas tours in Japan and China. Since 1980, Mr. Brion has conducted his popular Sousa at the Symphony concerts with nearly every American major and regional symphony orchestra, often in repeat performances. Brion's insight into the musical depth of Sousa marches will enlighten any serious reader. Includes: - Sousa'a Marches As He Conducted Them - Parts of a Sousa March - Articulations, Dynamics, Phrasing, Harmony and Counterpoint - Blend, Color, Balance and Tempo - The Importance of After-Beats and Bass Lines - Instruments and Instrumentations - Percussion in Sousa's Marches - Patterns for Conducting Marches - Background and Analysis of The Stars and Stripes Forever - 2/2 - Background and Analysis of The Invincible Eagle - 6/8 - A Summary of Sousa Performance Techniques - Performance Suggestions - New Sousa Band Style Sheet and Guidelines - A List of References: Books and Recordings - Facts and Misconceptions About Sousa and His Concerts