Recessional: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'recessional' comes from the Latin word 'recedere', which means 'to retreat' or 'to go back'.
• Initially used in church services, the word denotes the music that accompanies the procession out.

Cultural Significance

• In Western culture, recessional music is commonly played at weddings, funerals, and graduations, providing a musical farewell.
• Different cultures have unique traditions for 'recessional' music, often reflective of their values and beliefs.

Music Composition

• Recessional music can vary in tempo and tone, often chosen to evoke a sense of celebration or solemnity depending on the occasion.
• Many famous composers, like Mendelssohn and Pachelbel, have works that are frequently played during recessions.

Psychological Impact

• The type of music played during a recessional can influence the emotions of those present, helping to mark the end of a significant moment.
• Uplifting music at a recessional can help guests feel joy and hope as they leave a ceremony.

Literature and Arts

• Recessional themes appear in literature and poems, often symbolizing closure or a farewell to a chapter of life.
• Notable works, such as Rudyard Kipling's poem 'Recessional', reflect the themes of the temporal nature of life and the importance of remembering one's roots.

Ranking #36,650, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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