Which statement is true regarding John Philip Sousa's phonograph recordings?

The correct statement recognizes that John Philip Sousa, known for his influential role in American band music and composition, indeed made numerous phonograph recordings with his performing ensembles. Sousa believed in the power of recording technology to preserve and disseminate music more broadly. His band made several recordings from the late 19th century into the early 20th century, contributing significantly to the popularization of his marches and compositions.

In this context, Sousa's engagement with phonograph recordings showcases his innovative spirit as a conductor and promoter of music. He understood that recorded music could reach audiences far beyond what live performances could achieve at the time. This connection to the technological advances of his era exemplifies why the selected answer is accurate, reinforcing Sousa's legacy as a pioneering figure in both performance and recording.