The New Orleans Way to Travel
What is a Second Line?
The second line parade comes from the New Orleans jazz funeral tradition of having a front section or “first line” of mourners nearest the departed as they are moved by horse-drawn carriage or hearse from the service to the burial grounds. The second line is comprised of the supporters behind them. Propelling them forward is a band playing brass instruments such as the trumpet, trombone and tuba - while bass and snare drums keep the beat. Initially the band plays dirges to which marchers walk slowly and reverently, transitioning into upbeat numbers that get marchers dancing and celebrating the soul’s rise to heaven.
Jazz funerals play out today, as well as public Sunday second lines organized through neighborhood and fraternal clubs. Around Carnival or other city celebrations involving float parading, street parading to live music is a frequent complement. So entrenched and fertile is the tradition, parades are now in order for personal celebrations and professional gatherings. If you’ve been drawn to New Orleans for a special occasion and your crew needs to go from one place to another, there is only one proper way to get there!