Under the Double Eagle

Composed by Josef Franz Wagner (1893)
Performed by Brent Pierce

Few concert marches have achieved the enduring recognition of Under the Double Eagle, composed in 1893 by Austrian bandmaster Josef Franz Wagner. Originally written in honor of the double-headed eagle of the Austro Hungarian Empire, the march quickly gained international prominence and remains one of the most enduring works in the concert march repertoire.

This recording presents Under the Double Eagle through a distinctive instrumental lens, led by Brent Pierce on Telecaster electric guitar and steel guitar, which carry the primary melodic statements throughout the performance. By placing the guitars in the role traditionally held by brass, Pierce reimagines the march with clarity, authority, and expressive control bridging European march tradition with American roots instrumentation.

Supporting the melodic lead is a distinguished rhythm section featuring Cody Kilby (acoustic guitar) and Mark Fain (bass), both Grammy Award winning musicians widely respected for their contributions to American roots music. Kilby is a two-time IBMA Guitar Player of the Year, an honor earned as a member of The Travelin’ McCourys, recognized for his precision, tone, and musical leadership. Fain brings decades of experience as a Nashville based producer, lending both musical depth and a seasoned production sensibility to the performance.

At the center of the rhythmic framework is Rob Ouse, a Santa Cruz based drummer whose musicality and touch bring both strength and nuance to the recording. Ouse’s playing combines a deep respect for traditional timekeeping with refined dynamic control, allowing the march to breathe while maintaining its ceremonial authority.

Under the Double Eagle stands as a symbol of unity, resolve, and tradition. This all instrumental recording honors Wagner’s original intent while presenting the march through the combined artistry of accomplished performers and modern production craftsmanship.

Personnel

Brent Pierce: Telecaster electric guitar, steel guitar (melodic lead); producer, arranger, mixing, mastering
Cody Kilby: acoustic guitar
  (Grammy Award winner; two-time IBMA Guitar Player of the Year with The Travelin’ McCourys)
Mark Fain: bass
  (Grammy Award winner; Nashville based producer; Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder)
Rob Ouse: drums
  (Santa Cruz, California)

Recording Details

Produced, arranged, mixed, and mastered by Brent Pierce
Recording dates: 2025

All performances are instrumental.

Music composed by Josef Franz Wagner (1893)

Brent Pierce
http://www.brentpiercemusic.com