Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
(800) 937-3880
SELL

Lot #628
John Philip Sousa

Sousa pens and signs his magnum opus: Stars and Stripes Forever

This lot has closed

Estimate: $0+
Sell a Similar Item?
Share:  

Description

Sousa pens and signs his magnum opus: Stars and Stripes Forever

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. Great AMQS, four measures from “Stars and Stripes Forever” in fountain pen on a 6.5 x 3.5 off-white sheet, signed “John Philip Sousa 1916.” In fine condition.

“Stars and Stripes Forever” is Sousa’s masterpiece and, per an Act of Congress, the United States’ National March, traditionally played in band concerts across the country to celebrate the Fourth of July. Sousa composed the piece in his head on Christmas Day 1896 while on a European ferry, having just learned of the death of his band’s manager, and committed it to paper when he arrived home in the States. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #351 - Ended November 11, 2009





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $75.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.