To synchronize the movement of a large number of people, a march was created. This musical genre is distinguished by a clear rhythm and measured tempo. The march was most widespread in the army.
All organized processions of large numbers of people, be they military, ceremonial or festive processions, accompany the marches. This is especially true for the army, here the march not only organizes the soldiers, but also instills a cheerful spirit in them. The military march is characterized by fanfare and drum rolls.
A parade march is performed in the event of a solemn passage of troops, a marching march sounds at drill walks and exercises, a counter march accompanies the banner and the authorities, a mourning march is performed when laying wreaths at a funeral. The funeral march differs from the others in its slow tempo, minor key and the lesser role of fanfare turns of the melody.
The importance of marches always increased during the war years and during revolutions, then this musical genre became the most in demand. Many great composers have turned to the genre of the march, including it in operas, ballets, plays and other works of genius. Many wonderful works were written in Russia: "Slavic March" by Tchaikovsky, "March on a Russian Theme" and "Solemn March" by A. K. Glazunov.
Many soldiers' and revolutionary songs have a marching character, for example "Marseillaise", "Boldly, comrades, in leg", "Internationale" and many others. IO Dunaevsky's youth marches are popular now.
Athletes also raise their morale with rhythmic marches at training camps and major competitions. "Sports March of Labor Reserves" and "Sports March" by Dunaevsky are vivid examples of this.
One cannot but recall the famous wedding march of F. Mendelssohn from his play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." In the USA and Europe they perform The Wedding Choir from the opera Lohengrin by R. Wagner.
The Victory Parade cannot be imagined without inspiring marches. The orchestra performs its own special march for each of the consolidated regiments. This genre of music and beautiful performances keep the veterans alive and strong.