A march is a form of Western music that is characterized by a strong regular beat typically comparable to soldiers walking in step and by an emphasis on the use of percussion and brass. Marches originated as music performed by marching bands to inspire soldiers moving in formation to the accompaniment of a military band, and they continue to play an important role in military psychology. However, they have diversified considerably to represent not only the military but also even wedding celebrations and funeral processions and to become an important part of other types of music, including symphonies, operas, ballets, and even solo piano pieces.