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The United States Marine Band: Origins & Traditions

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  • President and Mrs. Adams Invite the United States Marine Band

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    Invitation from President and Mrs. John Adams to members of Congress, judiciary, diplomatic community, and general public. The U.S. Marine Band made its White House debut at this dinner reception on New Year's Day, 1801.

    White House Collection\White House Historical Association
  • Presidents' Passion for Music - Photo 1

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    President Abraham Lincoln reviews the New York volunteer troops on Independence Day, 1861, before the White House.

    The White House
  • Thomas Jefferson

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    President John Adams gave the band its charter, but President Thomas Jefferson gave the band its identity. An astute musician himself, Jefferson called the band "The President's Own."

    White House Collection/White House Historical Association

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The Marine Band, the first musical ensemble to perform at the White House, has provided a continual opportunity for presidents to enjoy music. President Thomas Jefferson, an avid violinist, called music his "favorite passion." President James Madison invited the band to perform at the first inaugural ball. President Abraham Lincoln found the band's concerts a lift from the gloom of the Civil War. Music for social events, ceremonies, and state entertainment has played an important part in the history of the President's House from its earliest days.

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