A sparkler and an American flag.
Independence Day always brings with it fanfare, pomp and circumstance. Fireworks. Big flags. Stores lined with red, white, and blue merchandise, featuring everything from USA shirts to huge themed yard decorations.
One of the grandest traditions is parades. From the smallest towns to the biggest cities, gathering together for 4th of July parades is a celebrated staple of the holiday. The tradition of these parades goes back centuries. Some composers have even built up their careers through making parade music! One of the best examples is John Philip Sousa; he wrote somewhere in the ballpark of 136 total marches, most of which dominate the parade music market.
But while Mr. Sousa wrote some phenomenal works, there are other parade compositions that also deserve their chance to shine. Here are a few of the best tunes ever composed for wind band, parades, and other celebratory settings.
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