dead march

/'ded'mɑ:tʃ/
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dead march

A military band plays a solemn dead march during a funeral procession.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A slow, solemn piece of music: A "dead march" is a specific type of musical composition, typically for a band or orchestra, characterized by a slow, measured, and solemn tempo. It is composed to be played during funeral processions to accompany the movement of the coffin and mourners.
Usage
  • The word "dead march" functions exclusively as a noun. It is a compound noun, but its meaning is specific and fixed, referring to the musical piece itself. It is used in contexts related to funerals, mourning, and solemn ceremonies.
Examples
  • The military band played a somber dead march as the soldier's coffin was carried through the streets.
  • The composer wrote a famous dead march that is still used in state funerals today.
  • The sound of the dead march filled the cathedral, marking the beginning of the funeral service.
Advanced Usage
  • The term is often capitalized when referring to a specific, well-known composition, such as Handel's "Dead March" from the oratorio .
    • The service concluded with Handel's "Dead March."
Variants and Related Words
  • Funeral march: This is a direct synonym and the more common modern term for the same musical form.
  • Dirge: A lament for the dead, often a song or hymn of mourning. While related, a "dirge" is more often vocal and expressive of grief, whereas a "dead march" is instrumental and processional.
  • Elegy: A poem or song of serious reflection, typically a lament for the dead. This is a broader literary and musical term.
Synonyms
  • Funeral march: The most common and direct synonym.
  • Processional (music): A more general term for music played during a procession, which could include a funeral.
  • Lament: A passionate expression of grief, which can be musical but is not specifically processional.
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • To the tune of a dead march: This phrase describes an action done with extreme slowness and solemnity, as if accompanied by such music.
    • The negotiations proceeded to the tune of a dead march, with little hope of a quick resolution.
Notes on Meaning
  • The "dead march" is a sub-genre of march music, distinct from military or celebratory marches due to its slow tempo and mournful character. Its primary purpose is ceremonial, to provide a dignified and rhythmic accompaniment for a funeral procession.
dead march

A military band plays a solemn dead march during a funeral procession.

Noun
  1. a slow march to be played for funeral processions

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