"It was arguably, the greatest and most popular musical organization during the late 19th and early 20th century in America, the 'golden age' of professional touring bands. This was Sousa's Band, formed by the illustrious composer and previous bandmaster of the United States Marine Band, John Philip Sousa some 115 years ago. It was to be the most dominant musical group throughout America for 40 years. It was the prototype of concert bands and had no peers over it's entire history"--P. [4] of cover.