"When the Saints Go Marching In", often referred to as "The Saints", is an American gospel hymn. Though it originated as a Christian hymn, it is often played by jazz bands. Both vocal and instrumental renditions of the song abound. Louis Armstrong was one of the first to make the tune into a nationally-known pop tune in the 1930s. Armstrong wrote that his sister told him she thought the secular performance style of the traditional church tune was inappropriate and irreligious. Armstrong followed a New Orleans tradition of turning church numbers into brass band and dance. The song is apocalyptic, taking much of its imagery from the Book of Revelation. As the hymn expresses the wish to go to Heaven, picturing the saints going in (through the Pearly Gates), it is entirely appropriate for funerals or All Saints' Day celebrations. [WIKIPEDIA]