Funerals

In recent years, we have started to play at many funerals, and uphold the New Orleans tradition of a cathartic and emotionally charged send off for a loved one. 

In the traditional New Orleans jazz funeral, the music takes place in two distinct parts. Before the service, the cortege is accompanied by the jazz brass band walking in front of the hearse, playing mournful, emotive dirge hymns such as Just a Closer Walk with Thee, Amazing Grace or What a Friend We Have in Jesus. The music helps friends and family in their mourning and sets a calm, respectful atmosphere ready for the service. 

The second part of the music takes place at the end of the service and calls for a vibrant celebration of the life of the deceased. Tunes traditionally played include When the Saints, Didn’t He Ramble and Bourbon Street Parade, and the music then spreads into a medley of many of the uplifting, celebratory tunes first played by jazz bands in 1920s New Orleans, New York and Chicago. 

We understand what a difficult time it is having lost a loved one, but also the importance of the funeral service. You will have our utmost respect and sensitivity throughout the whole process. 

While we usually play at a funeral in our normal quintet format, we can expand this to anything up to a ten-piece band. 

Call us on 07958 366517 or contact us by email to discuss the funeral and obtain a quote.