Weddings

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Musical options to consider for wedding services

Prelude (pre-ceremony music):  Usually about 15 minutes before the beginning of the ceremony. Typically, couples allow their musicians to choose the music for this portion as it allows them  more flexibility should there need to be additional music (i.e.: processional is delayed as someone is sick, late to arrive, etc...). The music played during this time is not usually included in the program. Classical, religious, or ethnic music is universally acceptable. The purpose of this music is to set the "tone" of your ceremony and soothe any jittery nerves! Some churches will allow tasteful, secular, love songs as well. Your minister will advise if there are restrictions. Some churches require the music be pre-approved either by the minister or minister of music. Please let me know if this is the case and who should be contacted.

Seating of the mothers: This may be the beginning of the processional, before the wedding party comes in, or the mothers may process in with the groom and bride. Some couples choose to have no special seating for the mothers. It is totally up to the individuals involved. If the moms are going to walk in with the bride or groom, they may choose to have grandparents be seated during this time. Music: May be a favorite song of one /or both moms, a special song of the couples, or a song you simply like. Suggests: Last Rose Of Summer; To A Wild Rose; You Raise Me Up. Some couples have used the beginning lines of Canon in D (Pachelbel) to usher in the moms, and then continue with the attendants, and finally, the bride.

Processional: This is music that typically ushers in the wedding party-groom, bridesmaids/groomsmen, ring bearers/flower girls, and the bride. The minister and parents may also enter during this time, as explained in the previous paragraph. The bride may choose to have one or two songs for the processional; one for the attendants and one just for her arrival. Both would be listed in the program. Music: Canon in D; either Trumpet Voluntary*; Norwegian Bridal March from Ore (sound clip), Air-Handel's Water Music, Jesu, Joy Of Man’s Desiring, Wedding Hymn-from Ptolemy; The Wedding March. Some couples choose nontraditional pieces such as You Raise Me Up; Evergreen, or Longer

Service music: The candle-lighting ( or Unity Sand, etc.) and communion portions are both times when harp music may be used. Again, these usually are songs you choose. Music: How Beautiful (T. Paris); Last Rose Of Summer; Longer (D. Fogelberg); either Ave Maria; a special hymn, etc.

Recessional: Music to exit the sanctuary. This is preferably a "peppy" piece. Music: Either Trumpet Voluntary; Psalm 19;  Ode To Joy (Beethoven); The Rejoicing (Handel's Royal Fireworks Music), etc.

Postlude: Usually 5-10 minutes to allow guests to exit the sanctuary. This music is usually chosen by the musicians, but may also be chosen by the couple.

If your ceremony is a religious service, the clergy officiating or the facility in which you are holding your service may have certain restrictions on the music you want to use. Please check with them.

Remember the wedding ceremony is a reflection of you and your beliefs. It is your day/celebration to make uniquely yours; do not be afraid to be creative.