US Marine Band, Marine barracks, D.C.

• 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. • 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. • 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." • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.