Banda At Funerals

A more common tradition in Mexico than in the United States, is having a banda play at a loved one's funeral. This tradition actually started during a celebration of the Day of the Dead, known in spanish as Dia de los Muertos. Usually on the Day of the Dead, people take special things or foods with them to go visit someone at the cemetery. There are so many different ways of showing the dead that you still cherish their memories and that they will always be loved. In this case, love can be shown through music.

When theres is banda, family members generally make processions to the cemetery, but not always. If there is a procession it is also the bringing of offerings and decorations for the grave sites. Families show up with music and dedicate favorite songs to the dead loved ones. Sometimes for passionate families who like to stay and keep watch all night, have musicians play music while priests offer blessings. Lighting candles and singing along is accustom because it shows affection. Commonly after the ceremony, the family gathers to go have a meal together and the banda stays until every family member has left. 

Hearing a banda play at a funeral may sound a little overwhelming, but it really is beautiful. It was an exceptional way to express sorrow through music. The songs played can be favorites of the person who died, or songs that tell stories. The range and variety of banda music is so widely spread that it can fit to work for anything. Touching songs. Sad songs. Sentimental songs. Really anything to suit any mood. I honestly love  banda that I would be honored to have one play at my funeral.