6 patriotic marches, performed by U.S. military bands

Here are half a dozen patriotic marches you should know, performed by various military bands.

Henry Fillmore: Americans We — U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band

Americans We is a prime example of a fast-tempo circus march. Dedicated "to all of us," this march has become a staple in band literature. Originally written and named for the Cincinnati Zoo, its eventual title, Americans We, gives rise to the patriotic feeling that is commonly associated with the march. Listen for the resemblance to John Philip Sousa's The Stars and Stripes Forever.

John Philip Sousa: The Black Horse Troop — U.S. Air Force Band

The only march by Sousa on the list is dedicated to the mounted troops of the Cleveland National Guard. The title is inspired by the composer's love for horses and the exclusive use of black ones for the troop. Sousa marched with the mounted unit for President Andrew Garfield's funeral while leading the U.S Marine Band. Listen for the 6/8 meter, which is supposed to resemble the galloping of the horses.

Edwin Franko Goldman: The Chimes of Liberty — U.S. Army Band

Considered one of the most lively and dynamic marches, The Chimes of Liberty was written in 1922 to commemorate the Washington Conference for the Limitation of Armaments. It is often considered America's greatest march not written by Sousa and has a piccolo part more distinctive than the one in The Stars and Strips Forever. Listen for the chimes and the piccolo.

Edwin Bagley: National Emblem — "The President's Own" U.S Marine Band

Coined as one of the top three street marches by Sousa, National Emblem, composed by Edwin Bagley, is widely heard by military members even if they don't know it. Although the march wasn't written for the Armed Forces, the trio section is used in military ceremonies for the entry of the official party. Listen for the first few notes of The Star-Spangled Banner given to the euphonium!

Francis H. Brown: N.Y. Light Guard Quickstep — U.S. Coast Guard Band

This piece is one of the earlier examples of an American march. It was composed in 1839 during a time when military bands played mostly marches from England. It was written as a drill piece for the N.Y Light Guard, which is New York's oldest military unit (now known as the 71st Infantry Regiment). Listen for a pace of 120 beats per minute to indicate the left-footed British quickstep.

Alton Adams: Spirit of the U.S.N. — U.S. Navy Band

In 1917, Alton Augustus Adams Sr. became the first Black bandmaster in the U.S. Navy. During his time in the Navy, he also composed, using his music to help bridge the racial divide in the organization. His march The Spirit of the U.S.N. helps evoke the forward momentum of racial harmony in the Armed Forces. Listen for the overall structure that is indicative of pride for one's branch of service.