“The Glory of the Yankee Navy” (1909)

   

The musical comedy The Yankee Girl was in need of a spirited march, so Sousa was prevailed upon to provide one. The march, one of Sousa’s most interesting musically, was dedicated to the star of the show, Blanche Ring. Lyrics  were provided by Kenneth S. Clark. The title underwent a process of evolution. The earliest known manuscript was labeled “Uncle Sam’s Navy.” Prior to the opening, newspapers referred to the march as “The Honor of the Yankee Navy.”

Paul E. Bierley, The Works of John Philip Sousa (Westerville, Ohio: Integrity Press, 1984), 43. Used by permission.