The Thunderer

"The Thunderer" is a march composed by John Philip Sousa in 1889. The origin of the name is not officially known, though it is speculated that the name is attributed to Myron M. Parker, a prominent DC politician and Freemason. It is also one of Sousa's most famous compositions.

Composition
Sousa developed and dedicated the song for Columbia Commandery No. 2, Knights Templar. He joined the Masonic organization earlier in his career and wished to compose a unique song for the body prior to the Twenty-fourth Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment. "The Thunderer" was likely referred to Myron M. Parker, a fellow member of Columbia Commandery, who was organizing the conclave.

The piece is in much the same manner as most of Sousa's music; however, it is one of his first "distinctly American-sounding marches." The march follows the standard form (IAABBCDCDC) that is used in many of his other works. As is common, his themes are contrasting. During the repeat of the B section, Sousa introduces new countermelodic ideas. The trio is songlike. There is a ritardando leading into the repeat of the final theme, segueing to the piece's conclusion.