
Music is an integral part of a wedding ceremony, and the songs chosen often hold a special meaning for the couple. When it comes to listing songs in a wedding program, there are a few ways to do it. Some couples may opt for a simple approach, listing only the song titles, while others may include the composer or performer's name. It is customary to include the composer for classical pieces and the performer for modern songs. Listing songs played during specific parts of the ceremony, such as the processional or background music, can provide a more detailed program. Some couples even include lyrics to enhance the experience for their guests. However, it is essential to consider that listing songs may set expectations, potentially impacting the emotional response during the wedding.
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What You'll Learn
- Including song choices: list song titles, performers, and composers
- Song choices as a surprise: don't list them to maintain emotional impact
- How to credit songs: list the composer, then the performer?
- Writing a wedding song: write a heartfelt love song with memorable, original lyrics
- Prelude music: choose songs for when guests gather, and for the seating of mothers/grandparents

Including song choices: list song titles, performers, and composers
Including songs in your wedding program is a great way to showcase your music choices and give guests a glimpse into the ceremony's ambiance. Here are some instructive tips on listing song titles, performers, and composers:
Listing Song Titles:
- You can list the songs played during different parts of the ceremony, such as the processional, seating of the mothers/grandparents, or any special moments like lighting a candle or unity sand rituals.
- Provide the song title and the performer or artist's name. For example, "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong or "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri.
- If you prefer a simpler approach, list only the song titles, such as "Canon in D" or "Ave Maria."
Including Performers and Composers:
- It is customary to credit either the composer (for classical pieces) or the performer (for modern songs). This helps guests find the songs later if they wish to.
- For live performances, credit the musician(s) or DJ/musician(s) who provided the musical services. For example, "Musical Services Provided By: Mr. John Smith, Violinist" or "Disc Jockey/Music Coordinator: Mr. John Brown."
- If you want to provide more detailed credits, include both the original artist and the performer at your wedding. For example, "What a Wonderful World" - Louis Armstrong, performed by [Performer's Name].
- For classical pieces, you can credit the composer. For example, "Ave Maria" - Bach/Gounod.
Remember, there is no strict protocol for including songs in your wedding program. You can choose to list only song titles or provide more detailed credits with performers and composers. However, be mindful that listing songs may create certain expectations among your guests, potentially impacting the emotional surprise of the moment.
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Song choices as a surprise: don't list them to maintain emotional impact
If you're looking to maintain the emotional impact of your song choices, you may want to consider not listing them on your wedding program. Here are some ideas to help you decide:
The Element of Surprise
Keeping your song choices a surprise can enhance their emotional impact during your wedding. Guests will be hearing the songs for the first time and may be more likely to feel the emotions you want to convey. This is especially true if you have selected songs with meaningful lyrics or melodies that hold a special place in your heart.
Personal Connection
If you have a strong personal connection to the songs you've chosen, keeping them a surprise can make the moment even more special. For example, if you have a song that holds memories of your first date or the moment you fell in love, hearing it unexpectedly during your wedding can create a magical moment for you and your partner.
Guest Interaction
Surprise song choices can also encourage guest interaction and create a unique shared experience. If you're hoping for a lively dance floor, keeping the songs a surprise can build anticipation and excitement. Your guests will be eager to hear what's coming next and may be more inclined to get up and dance, creating a fun and memorable atmosphere.
Creative Freedom
Not listing the songs allows for more creative freedom in your choices. You can select songs that may not typically be associated with weddings but hold special meaning for you. Whether it's a song from your favourite movie, a tune that always makes you smile, or a hidden gem from your favourite band, keeping it a surprise gives you the flexibility to choose songs that truly represent your relationship.
Sentiment Over Danceability
When choosing surprise songs, consider opting for sentimentality over danceability. While you may want your guests to dance and have fun, a slower, more heartfelt song can often have a greater emotional impact. It can create a moment of reflection for you and your partner, and your guests may appreciate the opportunity to witness a tender moment between you.
Remember, the decision to list or surprise your guests with the song choices is entirely up to you. Consider the overall atmosphere you want to create and how you want your guests to engage with the music. Whether you choose to surprise them or give them a sneak peek, the right songs will always enhance your wedding celebrations.
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How to credit songs: list the composer, then the performer
It is important to give credit where it is due, especially in music. When it comes to crediting songs in a wedding program, the general consensus is to list the composer first, followed by the performer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to correctly credit songs in a wedding program:
Understand the Different Roles
Firstly, it is crucial to understand the different roles involved in creating a song. The songwriter writes the lyrics and/or music for a song. The producer oversees and manages the production of a sound recording. In classical music, the composer is the person who writes the music, while in theatrical performances, a lyricist writes the lyrics. Other roles include recording engineer, mixing engineer, vocal producer, live musicians, and more.
Identify the Individuals Involved
Once you understand the various roles, identify the individuals who contributed to the song. Take note of their names and how they are professionally known. If they use a pseudonym, ensure you use the same when crediting them.
List the Composer First
When crediting a song in your wedding program, list the composer's name first. For example, if you are using the song "What a Wonderful World," the program could say "Weiss/Thiele - 'What a Wonderful World.'" This credits the composers, George David Weiss and Bob Thiele, for writing the song.
Then, Credit the Performer
After listing the composer, you can then credit the performer of the song. For instance, if you are using Louis Armstrong's version of "What a Wonderful World," you could write "Louis Armstrong's 'What a Wonderful World,' performed by [name of your soloist]." This format gives credit to both the original composer and the performer at your wedding.
Additional Information
If you are using live musicians, ensure they are credited for their performance. You can list their names alongside the song title, or at the end of the program if the music is more ambient. It is also worth noting that some songs, especially classical pieces, may not have a widely known performer, in which case, crediting the composer may be sufficient.
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Writing a wedding song: write a heartfelt love song with memorable, original lyrics
Writing a wedding song is a beautiful way to express your love and devotion. Here are some tips to guide you through the process of creating a heartfelt love song with memorable, original lyrics.
Choosing a Theme and Lyrics
Start by selecting a theme or concept that will serve as the foundation of your song. This could be inspired by a real-life experience, a story, or a specific moment in your relationship. While it's essential to draw from your personal experiences, remember that the best wedding songs are not literal descriptions of weddings. Instead, focus on universal themes of love, such as pledging eternal love, growing old together, or loving everything about your partner.
Using Creative Language
Enhance your lyrics with creative language and metaphors to convey the depth of your feelings. Compare your love to unique and memorable images, such as a blooming flower or a shooting star. These metaphors will add layers of meaning and make your song unforgettable. Avoid vague descriptions of your emotions and, instead, use vivid imagery that paints a picture and allows listeners to visualize the scene.
Adding Movement and Emotion
Your lyrics should have movement and take listeners on a journey. Avoid simply listing your partner's positive attributes, as this can become static and less engaging. Tap into your emotions and be introspective, but also ensure your song has a forward trajectory that keeps listeners invested. Finish with a powerful chorus that encapsulates the essence of your love song. Whether it's a catchy hook or a heartfelt refrain, leave your listeners wanting more.
Song Structure and Melody
The structure of your song matters, as it makes your song familiar, relatable, and memorable. Choose a popular song structure to guide your composition. Your melody will often be the most memorable part of your song, so keep it simple and catchy. Experiment with different chord progressions and melodies until you find the perfect combination that evokes the emotions you want to convey.
Including Personal Touches
Incorporate personal touches that make your song unique to your relationship. Embrace the little details and idiosyncrasies that make your partner who they are. Perhaps they have a unique laugh or a special way of doing things. Weave these into your lyrics to create a one-of-a-kind love story. A simple "thank you" or expression of gratitude for all the ways your partner enriches your life can also be incredibly touching.
Remember, the most important thing is to write from the heart and let your love shine through in every word. Best wishes on your songwriting journey!
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Prelude music: choose songs for when guests gather, and for the seating of mothers/grandparents
Prelude music is an important part of your wedding ceremony as it serves as the first impression of your event. Prelude songs play as guests arrive at your wedding ceremony, setting the tone for the occasion and evoking emotions in your guests. Prelude music can be played by live musicians or from a playlist. The songs you select should reflect your wedding style, whether classic, modern, or religious.
When choosing prelude music, it is essential to consider the number of songs you will need. Typically, guests will start arriving at the ceremony venue approximately 30 minutes before the festivities begin. Therefore, it is recommended to select between five and ten songs for this portion of your itinerary.
If you are including the ceremony song choices on your wedding program, you may want to list the song title, composer, and performer. This makes it easier for guests to find the songs later if they wish to look them up. For example, you could list "What a Wonderful World" - Weiss/Thiele, famously performed by Louis Armstrong.
Regarding the seating of mothers and grandparents, traditionally, there is no separate music for this and the last to be seated are usually the grandparents, followed by the parents and mothers. However, you may choose to have a special song for this moment, such as "Claire de Lune" by Debussy, which was used at one wedding. Ultimately, the choice of songs depends on the other music you will be using throughout the ceremony.
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Frequently asked questions
It is customary to include either the composer (if classical) or the performer (if modern). For example, "What a Wonderful World" - Weiss/Thiele, performed by [performer's name].
It is up to you. Listing the songs will help guests find them later if they want to, but it may also lessen their emotional impact when played during the ceremony.
A typical wedding ceremony music program includes preludes, processionals, and recessionals. You can also include interludes or songs during significant moments, such as lighting a unity candle, and a postlude as guests exit the ceremony.
Consider the bigger picture and how the songs will set the tone for the entire event. Some ceremony sites and officiants may have strict guidelines about which music can be played, so be sure to do your research.
Write a heartfelt love song with memorable, original lyrics that convey the love and devotion of the newlyweds. Avoid writing about wedding-specific imagery and focus on capturing the emotions of the day.





































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