Jazz Funerals & Second Lines, Pt. 1

One of the amazing traditions in New Orleans- particularly among musicians, Indians and Krewe people- is the Jazz Funeral, or, as it used to be known “Funeral with music,” typically followed by a Second Line parade.

In New Orleans, death has a different feeling than in the rest of the United States; there’s a familiarity and comfort with it, because it’s been so much closer here than elsewhere. With Yellow Fever , bubonic plague, hurricanes, duels, accidents on the Mississippi River and so many other ways to die prematurely, the people here learned to enjoy every moment while they could, and give a fantastic sendoff to their friends- after all, you never know when it’s going to be your turn, and you’d want them to do the same for you, right?

And so, the tradition of a two-part sendoff evolved over time, its roots having come over from Africa with the slaves. The musical styles have changed over the years, with brass bands being the current favorite. A band can be hired, but often family and friends bring their own instruments to play in honor of the deceased as well.

The “Jazz” part of the funeral begins after the service, when the casket is removed from the church.

Dirges and hymns are sung as the coffin is brought (either by foot or by hearse, depending on distance) to the cemetery. The marchers move slowly, swaying and singing, following behind in mourning, until they arrive at the grave side, where everything changes.

Youtube link:

Pt 2 here.