[Dixielandjazz] Second Line

[JimSox at aol.com]

     When the president in his speech last night, in describing a New Orleans 
jazz funeral, said that after the casket is laid in place, the band breaks 
into a joyful second line, what exactly did he mean?
     I've never personally witnessed a New Orleans jazz funeral, so maybe 
some of you who have can answer the question.   Does the band form a kind of 
flying wedge and go running full speed to break into the joyful second line?   And 
why don't the people in the second line, if they're so darned joyful, just 
let the band members in without forcing them to break in?   Is there violence 
involved? 
     I'm sure someone will be able to explain it to me, so thanks in advance 
for your help.

Jim Branson
Berkeley, Calif.