In addition to his world-famous marches, John Philip Sousa was a master of the piquant Humoresque, of which there are two examples here. The first, On the 5.15, is a popular song detailing the travails of a commuter, while the second, The Band Came Back, introduces popular tunes in witty fashion. The sonorous Second Fantasia from El Capitan showcases the band’s bravura qualities and The Fighting Race draws on a trombone solo. There are charming detours to explore rural Americana in the form of Sheep and Goat (‘Walkin’ to the Pasture’) and the evergreen classic, Turkey in the Straw.

Similar to previous releases, this new instalment also features several world premiere recordings including the Second Fantasia from El Capitan. Also recorded for the first time is The Fighting Race for solo trombone.

Now projected as a 23-volume series, previous instalments have consistently received praise.

Vol.18 is available on 8559812 and includes the Incidental Suite from The Charlatan, one of Sousa’s best-known operettas, and the national anthem spectacular March of the Pan-Americans, Part 2. ‘There is a great deal to enjoy here,’ according to Lark Reviews.

Infodad.com wrote of Vol.17 (8559811): ‘The upbeat nature of the music and the good humor with which Sousa puts the tunes together are amply reflected on this disc in performances that show just how skillful Sousa was in wind compositions that go beyond the marches for which he is famous.’

‘This series is every wind band lover’s dream, more interesting with each new discovery,’ wrote Fanfare of Vol.13 (8559729).