This piece is based on the song Lonesome Road which is an African-American Folk Song probably first sung by Charles Galloway, a black worker on the roads of Virginia. The composer has chosen this song as a vehicle to depict the traditional New Orleans style funeral. A somber procession to the cemetery is followed by joyous music in the jazz style, which takes in the belief that the departed is going to a better world. Your students and audience will have a blast exploring this unique musical tradition of the Big Easy!