I discovered a marching/symphonic band orchestration of
The Pines of the Appian Way (an orchestra finale which I posted recently) that comes with a back story. William Revelli was a much-heralded band director at the U of Michigan from 1935 until 1971. Had he not gone into music Revelli could easily have had a stellar career in the military as his aura and teaching methods were more apropos to someone with a title like Supreme Allied Commander. Bo Schembechler on his first day as head football coach of the Michigan Wolverines had the intimidating pleasure of meeting William Revelli who strode into his office in full battle regalia, a uniform that would have looked good on Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower. It was said he was feared by some and revered by all.
Obviously this is an old 33 vinyl recording and yet it still captures the immense precsion and power of over three-hundred strong U of Michigan band members as they recall the ancient glory of Roman soldiers marching to victory. Begin at 2:20 and enjoy those dozens of sousaphones and massive overpowering brass!