Why do they play jazz at funerals in New Orleans?

Carrying vestiges of African funeral rituals and originally intended to celebrate the new-found freedom of a departed slave, the jazz funerals of New Orleans evolved throughout the 20th century to come to be recognized as one of the most respected ways to exalt the life of a loved one.Click to see full answer. Accordingly, what is a New Orleans jazz funeral?New Orleans Jazz Funerals are public burial services for prominent community members; traditionally African American males. After the funeral service, a procession of musicians, funeral directors, family, and friends moves from the site of the funeral to the cemetery while marching to the beat of a brass band.Likewise, why do they carry umbrellas in New Orleans? The History of the Umbrella The idea of carrying an umbrella for shade was very common and it was also a symbol of southern style, femininity and grace. This umbrella became an accessory of choice for many southern weddings and was often an indicator of societal statue. Similarly one may ask, what is the performance tradition of a marching band at a New Orleans funeral? A typical jazz funeral begins with a march by the family, friends, and a brass band from the home, funeral home or church to the cemetery. Throughout the march, the band plays somber dirges and hymns.How does New Orleans celebrate death?When people die in New Orleans, we like to fill the streets with music – a celebration of the person’s life as much as a mourning of his or her death. Mourners are joined by a brass band that plays music that starts off heavy and sad but soon turns celebratory. Everybody dances.