Chapter 1 § 416 of the Guam Code Annotated states that “the composition of music known as the Guam March, composed by Jose Martinez Torres, is designated the march of Guam.” Mr. Torres began composing his signature piece prior to World War II and completed it after the retaking of Guam by American forces following the Japanese Occupation. The uplifting notes in the march resounds with the hope and promise of a brighter future. It reflects the vitality and resilience of the CHamoru people who endured many atrocities, brutal treatment and untold hardships. Many survived to tell their story. The Guam March is an integral part of that story of survival.

Jose Martinez Torres was born in Guåhan on 20 October 1882 to Francisco Diaz de Torres and Joaquina Crisostomo Martinez. He married Maria Perez Calvo. They lived in Hagåtña. He was an accomplished businessman, civic leader in the early Naval Administration period, served as an island judge, and was active as a church leader. Tun Jose, as he was called, was recognized as a pillar of his community and a consummate gentleman. His generosity knew no limits. To those who knew him personally they attest to his love for music as his true passion. He played the piano for family and friends in the evenings as they gathered round his grand piano and sang songs in Spanish and CHamoru. His penchant for classical selections entertained visitors and family alike.

During the war, the Torres family took refuge at their ranch in Padu’. The Japanese had confiscated all his business holdings, home and property including his piano. His children recall how he would sit nostalgically in an old chair at the ranch for hours on end running his fingers over the keys of an imaginary piano as he dreamt of a new order in those dark days of the war. Tun Jose was able to complete his gift to the people of Guam before his death in May of 1950. He did not live to see his composition officially designated as Guam’s March.

Originally composed for piano, the Guam March has subsequently been performed by the Guam Territorial Band, the Guam Symphony Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra with a full array of instruments.