John Philip Sousa – Where Bands Come to Play at Your Grave

John Philip Sousa Grave in Washington, D.C.

John Philip Sousa’s gravesite had a conductor’s baton and a trumpet mouthpiece left in tribute when we stopped by last week. Sousa is one of the famous occupants of Congressional Cemetery here in Washington, D.C., but as far as we know, the only one with concerts played at his grave in his honor.

Sousa's gravestone — Baton and Mouthpiece left at John Philip Sousa’s grave

Sousa is famous for leading the Marine Band and writing over 100 marches, but he also grew up here just a few blocks from the Marine Corps Barracks and has deep connections to this city.

Every year on his birthday the Marine Band stops by to play a concert at his grave here in Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C.

So if you’re in the area on November 6th, stop by for a graveside concert. It’s a unique Washington, D.C. moment.

Visit Congressional Cemetery for more info.