Development of Band Music in America 3

Originally Aired: July 29, 1936 Cavalcade of America #42, "Development of Band Music in America 3," continues the summer musical series featuring Arthur Pryor's famous concert band. The episode explores the evolution of American band music from the 1890s through the early 20th century, highlighting the spread of band music throughout America from professional organizations to college and high school ensembles. The program recreates memorable moments from John Philip Sousa's triumphant 1900 European tour, where assistant conductor Arthur Pryor served as trombone soloist. In Berlin, skeptical German regimental trombonists examine Pryor's instrument after hearing his virtuosic performance of "Air Varie," unable to believe such playing is possible without some clever American trick. The episode then moves to England, where Sousa's band performs a command performance for King Edward VII in honor of Queen Alexandra's birthday. King Edward decorates Sousa with the Medal of the Victorian Order, leading the composer to create "Imperial Edward" in the King's honor. Between musical selections including marches, operetta excerpts, and college songs, the program also features a chemistry segment about DuPont's development of synthetic camphor from Southern pine trees.