A screamer is a march intended for use in the circus, where it is played considerably faster than a standard military march (132-144 beats per minute, or faster still, as opposed to 120). Screamers tend to follow the same A-B-C-D-C’ form employed in most military marches (two strains, trio, break strain, trio) but are played without as much dynamic contrast, as their purpose—implied in the name—is to create frenzied excitement under the big top.

Some of the most famous screamers include Fucik’s Entry of the Gladiators, Henry Fillmore’s Klaxon and Rolling Thunder, and Karl L. King’s Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite.