It is a day John Philip Sousa...

It is a day John Philip Sousa would have loved.

On Saturday, an estimated 2,500 students representing marching bands from 40 Southern California high schools will perform in Torrance, taking the field at El Camino College in a tournament certain to attract hundreds of marching band enthusiasts.

Instead of one of Sousa’s military marches, the audience is more likely to hear adaptations of pop music, Broadway show tunes and even some classical pieces by the marching bands, according to tournament Director Jim Bantim of West High School in Torrance.

The defending champion is Glenn A. Wilson High School of Hacienda Heights. Bands are judged in three categories: marching, music and general effect on audience. In its seventh year, the tournament is the only one of its kind held in the South Bay.

“We felt audiences in South Bay would enjoy this kind of event and wanted to bring it to this area,” Bantim said. “It’s a wholesome, wonderful activity that thousands of teen-agers participate in that really doesn’t get a lot of notice.”

What: 7th annual High School Field Show Tournament.

When: 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday.

Where: Murdock Stadium, El Camino College, Crenshaw and Redondo Beach boulevards in Torrance.

Cost: Adults $5, students $2.50. Tickets may be purchased at the gate.

Background: The event is co-sponsored by El Camino College and West High of Torrance. About 2,000 spectators are expected.

Parking: Free, enter on Manhattan Beach Boulevard.

Information: (310) 533-4299.