Choreographed by Peggy Lyman-Hayes and John Feierabend

Introduce your students to the lively spirit of John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever” with this exciting new Move It! This activity practices expressive movement and on-point beat-keeping, encouraging students to feel the energy of one of America’s most iconic patriotic marches—complete with waving flags!

Composed in 1896, this marshaling tune remains a favorite with marching bands and audiences at parades and celebrations across America. Known as the “March King,” Sousa’s impact on American music is timeless. He composed so many of the best-known marches with melodies that permeate cultures worldwide that he was like the John Williams of his era.

Let your students bring this patriotic classic to life through dynamic movement, deepening their connection to the expressive intentions of art!