Celebration of Life: The New Orleans Funeral Tradition
Let Kanola Band help you celebrate your loved one with a traditional New Orleans second line send-off
The Essence of a New Orleans Funeral
The New Orleans funeral is a special blend of music, emotion, and uniting family and friends. Unlike traditional funerals that focus solely on mourning, New Orleans funerals are a celebration of life, originating from the city's diverse cultural tapestry. A funeral is not just a farewell; it's a "jazz funeral," a tradition deeply rooted in the city's African American community. This unique send-off is a testament to the belief that life should be celebrated even in death. The jazz funeral is a poignant and joyous event, combining the solemnity of a funeral with the resilience of a parade.
It is our absolute honor to serve on your family’s important day.
Understanding the New Orleans Funeral Tradition
Due to the private nature of these intimate moments, we do not have photos or videos to share. So, to understand the unique history of the Jazz Funeral, and get a feel for it, watch Preservation Hall’s video lesson on how it’s traditionally been done in New Orleans.
Traditions evolve over the years and your family can adapt the jazz funeral as needed. You can preserve the uniqueness of the tradition while incorporating personal touches and modern elements. For example, Kanola Band performed a Green Day song at a recent jazz funeral to honor the favorite music of the deceased.
The Jazz Funeral Progression
We start with the funeral dirge, a slow and somber musical piece, accompanies the procession as it makes its way to the cemetery (can be any location). We typically perform Spirituals or well-known hymns such as “Just A Closer Walk With Thee.”
The transition from the funeral dirge to jazz music marks a pivotal moment in the procession. As the band shifts from somber to celebratory tunes, the mood transforms, and the focus shifts from mourning the loss of your loved one to celebrating the wonderful life they lived. This musical transition is a powerful experience of resilience and spirit.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions about your family’s funeral or memorial service. We look forward to connecting with you for this important day.