A question that we are often asked is what type of music to have for a wedding
ceremony. While people often think of live music for the drinks reception and wedding
breakfast, often venues just offer a choice of track on CD.
Live music brings a whole new atmosphere to your ceremony and because professional musicians are so flexible, you will find that you can tailor your music to your personal taste.
For the processional, or entrance, traditionally marked by the “Wedding March”, you can also have songs with a good rhythm such as “Clare de Lune” by Debussy, “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol, “Songbird” by Eva Cassidy. A bride has recently asked us to play “Perfect Day” by Lou Reed which worked very well.
The signing of the register is usually a moment which is more meditative and chance to have something calming after the excitement of the marriage itself. “Somewhere over the Rainbow” is a piece that is well-known and works beautifully with strings, harp, piano and guitar. It can also work very well to have singers at your ceremony, whether in a civil setting or a church. Aclassical piece like “Meditation” by Thais, or “Gymnpedie” by Satie will also work well. If there is a love song that you particularly like for instance “The Prayer” which was sung by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli, or the theme from Titanic, these will also fit perfectly here.
Finally when you leave the ceremony, the Recessional can be upbeat and joyful. You will be walking back down the aisle smiling from ear to ear so the music can reflect that celebration!
We have played so many different pieces at this point of the ceremony, from Irish Jigs to the “Mendlessohn Wedding March”, “Prelude in C” by Bach and “Looks Like we Made it” by Shania Twain. The choices are endless but the most important factor is that you relate to that music and it will reflect your feelings on the day.
If you need a piece of music arranged especially for your ceremony, because it is not in the musicians usual repertoire, then you should allow at least six weeks prior to your event to let them know. It does take time to create the right arrangements and we will always want to make sure that we can create the sound that you are looking for!
Your musicians are experienced in which types of music will best suit their instruments, so don’t be afraid to bounce ideas around and ask any questions that pop up.
The music for your ceremony is a huge part of the day itself, so it is important to get it just right!
