Jazz in the Graveyard

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Sat 25 Oct 2014

The idea of having a relaxing time while listening to Jazz music in a graveyard is quite tantalising, but for some it's macabre and a place where we visit the least. It's almost a taboo being surrounded by the dead. For me and hopefully to others, reminiscing about the time spent with our loved ones with music in cemeteries and graveyards is such a befitting way to reflect and honour our dearly departed.

In some countries gathering or socialising around the cemeteries is almost a past time. All Saints Day which is on the 1st of November is a significant day for the Catholics. Country like the Philippines celebrate this event in a grand way. It is a time where the whole family head to the cemeteries to light candles, spruce up the tombs or the resting place of their loved ones. A time for prayers, reflection and honouring the dead.

It is also a chance for everyone to catch up and even enjoy some food while someone plays a guitar or sing. Filipinos go to great length to ensure that they are not forgotten.

In Guatamela , they celebrate the Day of the Dead by constructing and flying giant kite, then a visit to their ancestors' graves. Guatemalans also highlight the event by consuming Fiambre, which is a traditional food made from over 50 ingredients, specifically made for this day.



Some people even live amongst the dead. It's not by choice but a necessity.



We look at a graveyard as the home of the dead, and we might not admit it to ourselves that we associate it with fear. But if you look at a grave closely, there's history to be learnt. The shape of the grave, the year that person died and the cause of death, all spark a curiosity within us.

Hence, how would you like to experience something un-ordinary?

Just imagine a balmy afternoon, sitting on a rug, surrounded by candles, evergreen lawns, having a glass of wine, serenaded and lullabied by music. You could be forgiven for thinking that you're in a park.

Cemeteries in this country are well cared for. They have manicured lawns, beautiful gardens, sculptures of angels are everywhere and a kaleidoscope of colours from the flowers depicting the celebrations of afterlife.

Here it is. Jazz in the Graveyard . It will be held in the beautiful graveyards of St Stephens Church in Newtown. This unusual event is on the 25th of October 2014, at the hour of 5-7 PM.



It may not be an experience that everyone will cherish, but being with the departed, knowing that their souls may still be roaming around, is sure to leave you with a feeling that you are not alone.

#churches
#family
#free
#newtown
#city
#unusual_events
#october
!date 25/10/2014 -- 25/10/2014
%wnsydney