What Music should I have at our Wedding?

by Michael | Oct 20, 2022 | Blog

Music plays a huge part in most people’s wedding. Obviously, you may want to choose a band or disco for the reception. But what about the ceremony itself?

There’s quite a lot to consider.

Live or Recorded Music?

Only you can decide on how the music will be played. Live musicians add much to the atmosphere, although of course you pay for what you get. They can improvise, should something go wrong. If you know them or have recommendations, you should be able to rely on them and let them get on with it, once you have agreed their programme.

Recorded music may well sound good nowadays, as technology has advanced, but, if something goes wrong and you’re not a techie, you may be left in the lurch.

If you’re having a disco later, the DJ may be able to play your music, if you arrange it in advance.

When?

Forr the ceremony, there may well be music, usually quiet and ambient, as guests enter the room.

This may be followed by possibly stately music, as the wedding procession enters. (Or it may be something of significance to the couple.) Alternatively, this could be traditional such as “Here Comes the Bride” or Pachelbel’s “Canon”, or a march.

The couple will probably walk out (recessional) to what may be their favourite song. It is usually upbeat or rromantic.

It’s best to be sure that the piece of music will last long enough to cover the procession in.

Occasionally, there may be music during the ceremony, especially if there is an anticipated hiatus. This could well be during the signing of the marriage certificate.

Which?

People think that the music has to be classical or even religious. If you’re having a celebrant-led ceremony, you have complete choice about what goes into the service, so the music can be traditional or, shall we say, “original”.

Why?

Although it can simply cover a silence, there’s a lot of justification for including music. Music adds atmosphere and heightens the emotions. It can put a smile on faces, excite and cheer people up.

Whether formal or informal, traditional or modern, beautifully chosen music can add significantly to the character and atmosphere of any ceremony.

As a celebrant, I can help with advice. 

Do contact me for more information.

Photo: Nelly Prahova

Music for Wedding Ceremonies

by Michael | Jan 18, 2013 | Blog

A wedding is one of the important ceremonies of anyone’s life.

Whether it is formal or informal, traditional or modern, beautifully chosen music can add significantly to the character and atmosphere of any ceremony.

A celebrant can contribute greatly here. I’d like to offer a few suggestions. Obviously, individual choice will be all-important, so this is merely a personal guide.

Music – when?

If nowhere else, a piece of music could be played during the signing of the Register.

Music is often played during the Processional (as the Bride comes in) and equally for the Recessional (when the couple walk out at the end).

There could certainly be music before the ceremony, to set the tone; there may be hymns, if it’s a religious ceremony and – a little more unusual – music either side of the vows.

Music – which?

Commonly, wedding marches are played at the Processional and Recessional.

Baroque or Classical composers’ music (eg Bach, Handel, Beethoven) is often played during the signing of the Register. These pieces need to last long enough (at least five minutes) to avoid a potentially uncomfortable silence.

The music does not have to be classical, of course. It can be any genre, depending on the wishes of the couple. Indeed, there may be good reasons to choose music from other cultures, and this can be fascinating as well as moving for guests.

Music – how?

Live music can make a ceremony very special indeed. It can be quite costly, of course, but, as long as musician(s) and the celebrant agree beforehand when the music is going to be played, this can be a lovely touch.

CDs are cheaper, naturally, but a lot of reliance will then need to be placed on both the audio equipment and the operator.

To ensure smooth running of the ceremony, a rehearsal (with musicians/audio equipment) can be recommended, although responsibility for paying for this would be the couple’s.

Music – why?

Music heightens the emotions and gives meaning to the moment.  It will help bring about a wonderful feel-good sensation and contribute to ensuring that the ceremony will be memorable for all the guests and a highlight of the couple’s life together.