Definition

Noun: A recessional march is a piece of music composed in a march style, specifically intended to be played during a formal procession as it exits or withdraws from a ceremony or venue.

Usage

This term is used to describe the specific musical piece that accompanies a formal exit. It is most commonly associated with ceremonies such as weddings, graduations, or state functions, where the conclusion of the event is marked by a dignified procession.

Examples

• The organist began the recessional march as the newly married couple walked back down the aisle.
• After the commencement speech, the graduates filed out of the auditorium to the sound of a stately recessional march.
• The official ceremony concluded with a recessional march played by the military band.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in formal program notes or schedules to indicate the specific musical selection for the concluding procession.
• While "recessional" can refer to the act of withdrawing itself, the compound "recessional march" specifically denotes the musical composition.

Variants and Related Words

• Recessional (Noun): Can refer to the hymn or piece of music played during a recession, or to the recession ceremony itself. (e.g., )
• Processional March (Noun): A march played for an entrance or opening procession, serving as the opposite of a recessional march.
• March (Noun): A piece of music with a strong regular rhythm, typically in duple or quadruple meter, originally designed to accompany marching.

Synonyms

• Exit march
• Retiring march (less common)

Notes

A recessional march is defined by its function (accompanying a formal exit) rather than a specific tempo or style, though it typically conveys a tone of dignity, celebration, or solemn conclusion. It is a specific type of march.

Noun

1. a march to be played for processions