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Music is an integral part of any wedding ceremony, and choosing the right songs can be a daunting task. The length of a wedding ceremony song can vary depending on several factors, such as the length of the aisle, the number of people walking down the aisle, and the desired pace. The most basic wedding ceremony music program includes prelude songs, processional songs, and recessional songs. Prelude music is played while guests are being seated, the processional song accompanies the entry of the wedding party, and the recessional song is played when the couple exits the venue. The length of these songs can vary, but it's important to ensure they are appropriate for the pace and flow of the ceremony.
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What You'll Learn
Prelude songs
When selecting your prelude songs, consider whether you want live musicians or a playlist. Live music can add a special touch to your wedding, with options including a wedding band, pianist, harpist, violinist or string quartet. If you opt for a playlist, you can choose from a range of genres, such as classic rock, pop or acoustic songs.
In terms of timing, prelude songs usually start when the doors open, or as early as 45 minutes before the ceremony, but no later than 20 minutes prior. Most guests arrive about 10 to 15 minutes before the ceremony starts, so plan to have music playing to fill the time and create a romantic atmosphere. As a guide, you'll need between five and 10 songs for this pre-ceremony period, lasting around 30 minutes.
- "God Only Knows" by John Legend and Cynthia Erivo
- "Everything" by Michael Bublé
- "Yellow" by Coldplay
- "Water Music Suite No.3, HWV 350" by George Frideric Handel
- "Moonlight Sonata" by Beethoven
- "Sheep May Safely Graze" by Bach
- "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)" by Worship Music Piano (Christian wedding)
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Processional songs
The length of a wedding processional song depends on several factors, including the length of the aisle, the number of people walking down the aisle, and the pace at which they walk. It is recommended that the song be timed or edited to fade in at the appropriate place, beginning no more than a few seconds before the first member of the bridal party starts to process.
For a pre-processional song, which serves as a heads-up to the bridal party, a duration of two to three minutes is suggested. This allows enough time for the bridal party to get ready and prevents the groom and celebrant from waiting too long at the front.
The processional song for the entrance of the bridal party should be played only as long as it takes for them to assume their places at the front. Similarly, the music for the bride's entrance should accompany her only until she reaches her place next to the groom. It is essential to consider the length of the aisle and the number of people walking down the aisle when selecting or editing the song to ensure it matches the duration of the procession.
Some sources suggest that two processional songs can be used: one for the family and wedding party and a more dramatic and emotional song for the bridal processional. This can add a special touch to the bride's entrance.
It is worth noting that the pace at which the bridal party walks will impact the duration of the procession. Rehearsing the procession and timing it beforehand can help determine the appropriate song length. Additionally, having a flexible plan that can be adjusted during the processional can ensure that the music aligns with the timing of the ceremony.
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Recessional songs
The recessional song is played at the end of the wedding ceremony when the newlyweds and wedding party walk up the aisle. There are no steadfast rules when it comes to choosing a wedding recessional song. You can opt for a classical instrumental piece, a traditional cultural song, an acoustic cover, or a current hit. The song should be sentimental and thoughtfully chosen by the couple.
Classical Instrumental Pieces
- "Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn
- "Spring"
- "Here Comes The Bride" by Vicente Avella on classical piano
- "Journey’s Don’t Stop Believing" by a string quartet
- "Everlong" by the Vitamin String Quartet
Traditional Cultural Songs
- "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole
- "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
Acoustic Covers
- "Hey Ya!" by Outkast
- "Wildest Dreams" by Taylor Swift covered by Duomo
- "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Brooklyn Duo
- "Since You Been Gone" by Rainbow
- "Hands Down" by Dashboard Confessional
Current Hits
- "I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas
- "Wake Up" by Arcade Fire
- "The Dog Days Are Over" by Florence + the Machine
- "Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You" by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
- "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley
The length of the recessional song will depend on the length of the aisle and the number of people walking down it. A longer aisle or more people walking down the aisle will require a longer song. A good rule of thumb is to allow about 30 seconds per group walking down the aisle, and the song can always be replayed if it is too short.
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Interludes
The length of a wedding ceremony song depends on several factors, including the length of the aisle, the number of people walking down it, and the walking pace. A typical processional song lasts between 2 and 4 minutes. However, if you have a short aisle, a song longer than 2 minutes may be too long.
Many couples choose to include interludes—songs played during significant moments such as the unity candle lighting or the ketubah signing. Interludes can be used to create a romantic atmosphere or add a personal touch to the ceremony.
When selecting songs for interludes, consider the tempo and style of music that will best suit the moment. For instance, a slow, romantic ballad may be more appropriate for the unity candle lighting, while a more upbeat tune could be played during the ketubah signing.
If you're looking for song recommendations, consider the following:
- "Just the Two of Us" by Grover Washington Jr. ft. Bill Withers: This song speaks of being together and belonging with each other, making it a perfect fit for a wedding.
- "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell: This classic song conveys the message that no obstacle is too difficult to overcome when two people are in love.
- "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours" by Stevie Wonder: This fun and quirky song, with its meaningful lyrics, is a great choice for couples who just signed the wedding register.
- "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran: This modern classic, with its swoon-worthy lyrics, is a popular choice for first dance songs among Gen Z and young millennials.
- "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran: Another chart-topping hit by Ed Sheeran that continues to be a favourite on first dance playlists.
- "Your Song" by Elton John: A timeless classic that expresses the sentiment of being head over heels in love.
- "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey: This song, played by a string quartet, blends traditional and contemporary styles and has become one of the most popular modern choices.
- "Here Comes The Bride": This classical piece, often played on an organ, is the traditional choice for the procession of the bride. A modern arrangement on classical piano can add a touch of tradition without the drama.
- "Love Actually" soundtrack: For a modern song with a beautiful melody and tempo, consider a song from this popular romantic movie.
- "All You Need Is Love" by The Beatles: This classic song with its uplifting message is a perfect fit for the joyful occasion.
Remember, the interludes are an opportunity to personalise your wedding ceremony and create memorable moments. Choose songs that resonate with you and your partner, reflecting your unique love story.
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Postludes
The length of a wedding ceremony song depends on several factors, such as the length of the aisle, the number of people walking down the aisle, and the desired pace. Most sources suggest that the processional song, which accompanies the entry of the wedding party, family, and bride, should be around 2 to 4 minutes long.
Postlude songs are played after the recessional, as guests are exiting the ceremony and transitioning to the reception. They are usually slightly upbeat and solemn at the same time, marking the ceremony's success and creating a celebratory atmosphere. There is no set length for postludes, but they should be long enough to allow guests to exit the ceremony venue and make their way towards the reception area. Some couples choose to have a musician, such as a violinist or bagpiper, lead the guests out in a parade-like fashion.
- "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Tammi and Marvin: A romantic and danceable song that speaks of love, promise, and commitment.
- "I Will Never Let You Down": An upbeat song that reminds your partner of your promise.
- "Joyful, Joyful": A Christian hymn that gives glory to God and celebrates the institution of marriage.
- String Quartet: A little dramatic but perfect for a soulful and upbeat transition into the reception.
- Will.i.am's "Drop the Beat Now": An upbeat and high-tech rhythm that will get your guests excited and dancing.
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Frequently asked questions
There are three types of songs played during a wedding ceremony: preludes, processionals, and recessionals. Prelude music is played when guests are being seated and usually starts 45 minutes prior to the ceremony but no later than 20 minutes before. You'll need between five and 10 songs for this period. Processional songs are played when the wedding party walks down the aisle and can be one song for everyone or a separate song for the bride's entrance. Recessional songs are played at the end of the ceremony when the couple leaves the venue and tend to be more upbeat. The length of the song depends on the length of the aisle, the number of people walking down the aisle, and the walking pace.
Wedding prelude songs are usually played for 45 minutes to 20 minutes before the ceremony starts. You will need around 5 to 10 songs for this period.
The length of a wedding processional song depends on several factors, including the length of the aisle, the number of people walking down the aisle, and their walking pace. A processional song can be around 2 to 4 minutes long.
