John Philip Sousa "The Stars and Stripes Forever" The Stars and Stripes Forever, composed by John Philip Sousa, is one of the most iconic and celebrated marches in American history.Its bold, spirited melody stirs patriotic pride and continues to energize parades, ceremonies, and celebrations across the United States and beyond. Overview of the Piece Sousa composed The Stars and Stripes Forever in 1896 after being inspired during a European trip.In 1987, the United States Congress officially designated it as the National March of the United States, underscoring its cultural and historical significance. Originally written for the Sousa Band, the piece ...