[Dixielandjazz] Jazz Funerals

[Randy Fendrick]

Played many jazz funerals, the most unusual tunes, "I'm Glad Your Dead, 
You Rascal You" and "Little Sunflower" both were special requests from 
the deceased.  The price is whatever is the norm for the area, I can't 
get away with $200 per person, but in some areas I imagine you can.  I 
used the most mobile band possible, trpt, trombone, clarinet, banjo or 
guitar with a portable amp, sometimes a tuba, and drums.  When my 
sister in law passed recently, we used all seven of us and played "Gone 
Fishin" and a couple of spirituals "Amazing Grace" and "Closer".  We 
played  Amazing in 4 and in a swing tempo, rather than the customary 
tempo, which brought a smile to everyones face.  I guess the bottom 
line is, know your audience, as what we have done in some funerals 
would not be accepted in others.  Just hiring a jazz band for a funeral 
is going to denote some degree of acceptance to the music that is being 
played.
later,
>
Randy Fendrick,
Southside Chicago Seven
Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra