The United States Marine Band is believed to be the oldest military band and the oldest performing organization in the country, having been authorized by an act of Congress July 11, 1798. This is the band known as “The President’s Own” because of its unique relationship to the President of the United States. Outgoing President John Adams had requested the band to perform at the Executive Mansion on New Year’s Day, 1801 and incoming President Thomas Jefferson requested that the band play for his inauguration.
Since that time, the United States Marine Band has performed at every presidential inauguration since. President Jefferson gave the band the title “The President’s Own” in 1801.
The band’s history is marked with many inaugural “firsts” including its participation in the first inaugural parade on the occasion of President Jefferson’s second inauguration ceremony. It also performed in what is believed to be the first inaugural ball for the inauguration of President and Mrs. James Madison in 1809, held at a Washington, DC hotel.
Link: the Marine Band’s Inauguration History
Alexandria, Va. – The Marine Band, conducted by Assistant Director Maj. Ryan J. Nowlin, performed the concert “Traditions” on Feb. 2, 2020, featuring wind band favorites and popular marches. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Brian Rust/released)
www.heritagebrassband.com 