USA-250: Celebrating John Philip Sousa in South Dakota

FAIN: ZZ-310510-26

South Dakota State University (Brookings, SD 57007-0001)
Paul David Reynolds (Project Director: September 2025 to present)

A two-day public symposium and concert on the legacy of John Philip Sousa and his music’s role in shaping American patriotic identity. NEH funds would support speaker honoraria, staff time to prepare for and run the symposium, and facility costs. 

In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary, the South Dakota State University (SDSU) School of Performing Arts and the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center in Brookings, South Dakota propose a dynamic and historically grounded two-day public symposium and concert program titled "USA-250: Celebrating John Philip Sousa in South Dakota." This initiative will illuminate the enduring legacy of John Philip Sousa, whose music played a pivotal role in shaping American patriotic identity.