How Do You Arrange A New Orleans Jazz Funeral Procession?
Funerals are an occasion to celebrate life and in New Orleans, death is not seen as a loss but a release from this life. Jazz was born in New Orleans, so it’s only fitting the music is used in a commemoration of life. Jazz funerals are often held for musicians and members of social and pleasure clubs. These services evolved at the beginning of the 20th century. At that time, they were most popular among African American Protestants. The Catholic Church frowned upon the secular music and dancing common to jazz funerals. You don’t have to be in New Orleans to have a jazz funeral; here’s how to arrange one. Find a jazz band with a full complement of brass instruments. Make sure they include at least one trumpet, trombone, saxophone, snare drum and bass drum. Search the Internet for available bands. The Gigmasters website is one of many that offer information on all types of bands. Ask local high school and college band directors if any of their students have a jazz combo. The telephone bo
