Spotlight on Sousa
Saturday, July 4, 2026 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Included with paid museum admission;
free for members
Event Details
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with the music of the “March King,” John Philip Sousa!
Curator Talk: Rich Walter
10:30–11:00 a.m.
Event Room 2
Step inside the stories behind the instruments and cultural moments that made brass music iconic across North America, as well as the musicians who shaped their sound, with MIM’s curator for United States / Canada.
Performance: Salt River Five
11:15–11:45 a.m.
North El Río
Celebrate the great marches of John Philip Sousa as well as music inspired by the composer’s legacy with this local brass quintet.
Demonstration: Orchestrion
Noon–12:10 p.m.
Mechanical Music Gallery
Listen to the patriotic marches “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “Stars and Stripes Forever”—John Philip Sousa’s most famous melody—as played by MIM’s largest instrument, the orchestrion!
Weekend ExtrasAvailable for Purchase
Lunch at Café Allegro
Offered daily 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Enjoy a menu of delicious global cuisine with fresh entrées, salads, soups, and grill items showcasing local produce and flavors from around the world.
