What is concert march?

Concert marches are musical compositions intended to be performed in a concert setting, typically by a band or orchestra. They are typically written in 2/4 or 4/4 time and often feature a syncopated rhythm.

Concert marches have a rich history and are often associated with military bands. They were originally written to accompany soldiers as they marched to battle, and their stirring rhythms and melodies were intended to boost morale and evoke feelings of patriotism. Today, concert marches are still commonly performed at military ceremonies and parades, but they are also popular in the concert hall and are performed by a wide range of ensembles.

Well-known composers of concert marches include John Philip Sousa, who is often referred to as the "March King," as well as Henry Fillmore, Karl L. King, and Edwin Eugene Bagley. Some of the most famous marches by these composers include Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever," Fillmore's "Miss Trombone," King's "Barnum and Bailey's Favorite," and Bagley's "National Emblem March."

Concert marches continue to be a staple of the concert repertoire, and their upbeat rhythms and timeless melodies are beloved by audiences worldwide.