The harp was a prominent instrument in ancient Egyptian funeral processions, often used to create solemn and melancholic melodies.

Dirges, characterized by their slow tempo and mournful melodies, are commonly performed in African funeral rituals to express grief and sorrow.

In Native American cultures, music in funeral rituals serves multiple purposes, including honoring the deceased, comforting the mourners, and guiding the spirit of the deceased to the afterlife.

New Orleans jazz funerals are known for their lively and energetic processions, typically led by a brass band playing upbeat and soulful melodies.

Silence during funeral rituals can hold various meanings, including showing respect for the deceased, allowing mourners to reflect on their loss, and creating a solemn and contemplative atmosphere.

In traditional Chinese funeral rituals, various instruments are used, including the guzheng, pipa, and erhu, each contributing to the somber and melancholic atmosphere.

In Hindu funeral rituals, music serves multiple purposes, including helping the soul of the deceased transition to the afterlife, comforting the mourners, and celebrating the life of the deceased.

Music during a wake or vigil serves various purposes, including keeping the spirit of the deceased company, providing comfort and support to the mourners, and marking the transition from life to death.

Music in military funeral rituals serves multiple purposes, including honoring the deceased soldier, providing solace to the family and friends of the deceased, and marking the end of the soldier's service.

The recitation of the Kaddish in Jewish funeral rituals serves multiple purposes, including mourning the deceased, praising God, and asking for forgiveness for the sins of the deceased.

Music in contemporary funeral rituals in Western cultures serves various purposes, including providing comfort and support to the mourners, celebrating the life of the deceased, and marking the transition from life to death.

The use of specific musical keys or scales in funeral music can convey emotions such as grief and sorrow, create a sense of solemnity and reverence, and evoke memories of the deceased.

Music in funeral rituals in the Zoroastrian tradition serves multiple purposes, including helping the soul of the deceased cross the Chinvat Bridge, providing comfort to the mourners, and marking the end of the earthly journey of the deceased.

Music during the scattering of ashes or the burial of the deceased can mark the final farewell to the deceased, provide comfort and support to the mourners, and celebrate the life of the deceased.

Music in the context of ancestor veneration serves multiple purposes, including honoring and remembering the deceased ancestors, seeking their blessings and guidance, and maintaining a connection with the past.