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Established by an Act of Congress in 1798, the United States Marine Band is America's oldest continuously active professional musical organization. It's mission is unique - to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. Whether performing for State Dinners or South Lawn arrivals, events of national significance, or receptions, Marine Band musicians appear at the White House an average of 200 times each year. In addition to it's White House mission, "The President's Own" performs an annual season of indoor concerts during the spring and an outdoor summer series on the National Mall. Marine Band musicians also perform in many different types of ceremonies and events throughout the Washington, D.C. area, including Full Honors funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, Friday Evening Parades at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., and educational programs in schools throughout the local region. Each fall, the Marine Band travels throughout a portion of the continental United States during it's concert tour, a tradition initiated in 1891 by "The March King" John Philip Sousa, who was the band's legendary 17th Director. While the Marine Band is firmly dedicated to preserving the unique musical traditions established over it's long history, it is equally committed to serving as a leading ensemble in the development of new repertoire for winds. The organization is equally committed to bringing prominent guest conductors to the podium. The Marine Band's integral role in the national culture and in the government's official life has affirmed the importance of the arts as a bridge between people.