“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band – Playing America’s Music for 200 Years, will be on display at the White House Visitor Center 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. through January 14, 2002. Inquiries: 202. 208.1631.
The Marine Band is America’s oldest professional musical organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every American president since John Adams. Given the title, “The President’s Own” by Thomas Jefferson, an avid musician, the band’s primary mission is to provide music for the president of the United States.
The 10-panel exhibit incorporates 80 historic photographs and documents and covers topics ranging from the band’s history and the origins of “Hail to the Chief” to the use of music as a tool of diplomacy. A turn-of-the-century uniform coat and an 1890s Columbia wax cylinder recording of Marine and music are among artifacts featured in the show.
“The President’s Own” was organized by the White House Historical Association, the White House Curator’s Office, and the United States Marine Band in cooperation with the National Park Service.
