Last Thursday the US Navy visited the Sousa Archives, documenting John Philip Sousa’s involvement with the Great Lakes Navy Band during WWI. During their visit, a film crew conducted interviews, played historic instruments, and explored the Center’s collections.  That evening the Illinois Summer Band gave it’s first Twilight Concert on the Illinois quad with the Great Lakes Navy Band.  We had a great turnout! Before the concert, Flat Sousa had his picture taken with members of both bands and the audience. At the end of the performance, the two bands came together to play America the Beautiful, Armed Forces On Parade, Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever, and Illinois Loyalty. The patriotic music celebrating America’s 250th was outstanding. It was a delight to play with the Great Lakes Navy Band and we hope they can come back to campus again to share another concert with the Illinois band.  Special thanks to Illinois Band’s Barry Houser, Kim Fleming, and Beau Bujol for pulling this concert together for everyone in the Summer Band.