Search - John Philip Sousa, Nonpareil Wind Band :: Grand Sousa Concert

John W. (jlwbear)
Reviewed on 3/12/2010...

This is an excellent selection of Sousa marches both familiar and rarely-played works. The CD is well recorded, and the musical selections are well-rendered by a top quality band. Recommended.

A Grand Sousa Concert, Indeed

Danielle Bennignus | 01/30/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'll come right out and say it. I love John Philip Sousa. I find his work addictive, joyous, and often very surprising. This is an album that explains why - it's perfectly arranged and performed, and the selections included could not be any better.



First of all, it's important for folks new to Sousa to understand that no, sir - he didn't compose only marches. Rather a shame that nowadays those are almost exclusively what he's legendary for - they are gems, indeed, but there's far more to the man than what we so often hear in high school bands, hometown parades and national events. Sousa could charm us with playful foxtrots, delight us with unique tangos, caress the ears with heavenly waltzes, and humor us with whimsical cakewalks. Thank goodness this album proves this truth.



Appropriately, the Great American Main Street Band plays each piece with strength, elan and respect - it doesn't get any better. The finest selections include "The Pathfinder of Panama" - a truly rousing march; "The Gliding Girl" - a tango, dedicated to his daughter, Priscilla); "The Presidential Polonaise" - a most noble dance; "La Reine de la Mer" - one of my favorite waltzes, so lovely; and "With Pleasure" - a cakewalk in the most deleriously fanciful fashion. Of course, each piece amongst these stong points is just wonderful, as well.



In all, this is just a flat out great album. Required listening for newly-minted Sousa fans, as well as members of the Old Guard - that would include me. It's a joy to hear, and will become a frequent resident in your CD shuffler - I guarantee that."

Thumbs up

Richard Kinch | Lake Worth, FL USA | 02/05/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Good, crisp rendering of a fine selection of Sousa pieces. Conductor Timothy Foley is well respected."