In late 1861 Sousa studied solfeggio under John Esputa Sr. but was not able to cope with the elderly Spaniard’s temper so the lessons did not last long. Later Sousa enrolled in a private conservatory of music operated by John Esputa, Jr.. The school was located at 511 Eighth St close by the Sousa home. Esputa was a prominent violin and viola instructor and a fine cornetist. He soon found out the young Sousa had perfect pitch and could read music at sight. It is from Esputa that Sousa received his strong foundation in music theory and harmony. He also received training in violin and other instruments giving him excellent background when it came to writing and arranging music.
Esputa published a textbook entitled, “MUSIC INSTRUCTOR, calculated to impart a complete knowledge of music in a rapid and thorough manner, especially adapted to the wants of SCHOOLS, SEMINARIES, &c., to which is added SCALES AND EXCERCISES for the various BRASS INSTRUMENTS, composing a BRASS BAND.”
How I would love to have attended this academy, whether or not I knew of my fellow pupil, John. Mr. Esputa must’ve been quite influential to have aided the growth of America’s March King. (I wonder if teacher and pupil stayed in touch after Mr. Sousa’s fame). God bless them both!
The Stars and Stripes Forever is a masterpiece, right up there with the greatest of composers.
Jerseyjean54@yahoo.com John esputa is my grandmothers father when her mother Mary Jameson died in1900 he dumped his daughter a marguerite and Raymond. He put her in academy run by the nuns and Raymond in an Orphanage. He was 2 and a half