About this Unit
The United States Marine Band, stationed at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., was established in 1798, making it the oldest continuously active professional musical organization in the United States. Known as "The President's Own," the band’s primary mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. Throughout its history, the Marine Band has performed at every presidential inauguration since Thomas Jefferson’s in 1801, becoming a vital part of national ceremonies. Under renowned leaders such as John Philip Sousa, the band has achieved international acclaim for its musical excellence and historic significance.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Professional Musical Organization in the U.S.: The United States Marine Band, also known as "The President’s Own," was established in 1798, making it the oldest continuously active professional musical organization in the United States.
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Connection to Every President: The Marine Band has performed at every U.S. presidential inauguration since Thomas Jefferson’s in 1801, cementing its role as an integral part of American political tradition.
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John Philip Sousa's Legacy: The legendary composer and conductor John Philip Sousa served as the Marine Band’s director from 1880 to 1892, composing many famous marches such as "The Stars and Stripes Forever."
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Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C.: The Marine Barracks, located at 8th and I Streets SE in Washington, D.C., is the oldest active post in the Marine Corps, founded in 1801 by President Thomas Jefferson and Lt. Col. William Ward Burrows.
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White House Performances: The Marine Band is known as "The President’s Own" because of its close association with the White House, providing music for state dinners, official ceremonies, and other major events.
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Famous Summer Concerts: The band holds public concerts throughout the summer at both the U.S. Capitol and the Marine Barracks, a tradition dating back to the 19th century.
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Unique Audition Process: Musicians selected for the Marine Band are chosen through a rigorous audition process and are some of the most talented in the nation; they do not undergo basic Marine Corps training.
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Historic Barracks Architecture: The Marine Barracks is a National Historic Landmark, featuring parade grounds and buildings that have been in continuous use for over 200 years.
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Famed "Evening Parade": The Marine Barracks hosts the "Evening Parade," a renowned military ceremony featuring the Marine Band, the Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, and the Silent Drill Platoon.
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First Band to Tour the Nation: In 1891, under Sousa, the Marine Band became the first to tour the United States, introducing concert band music to audiences across the country.
