Deborah Chan
Music is an integral part of a wedding and the songs chosen can set the tone for the entire ceremony. While some couples opt for modern hits, others prefer to stick to tradition. Classical music, for instance, provides an unmatched elegance to the occasion. Some popular classical choices include Pachelbel's Canon in D, Bach's 'Air on the G String', and the Bridal Chorus from Wagner's 1850 opera Lohengrin, also known as 'Here Comes the Bride'. If you're looking for something more upbeat, there's always 'Teenage Dream' by Katy Perry or 'Concerning Hobbits' from The Lord of the Rings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Songs | At least 5 songs are recommended, including one for the processional, three for any moments in between, and one for the recessional |
| Song Choices | Classical music, such as Mozart, Bach, Vivaldi, and Handel, is a popular choice for traditional weddings. Other options include popular songs, pop tunes, and hymns. |
| Song Moments | Songs can be played during the processional, bridal entrance, signing of the registers, recessional, drinks reception, first dance, and more. |
| Venue | The venue may dictate the type of music played, e.g. churches often have strict guidelines. |
| Musicians | Songs can be played by a string quartet, harp, brass ensemble, or a wedding orchestra. |
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What You'll Learn
Classical music for weddings
Classical music is a popular choice for weddings, adding a touch of elegance and tradition to the ceremony and reception. Here are some timeless classical music selections that you can consider for your special day:
Canon in D by Pachelbel
Canon in D is a well-known and beloved piece of classical music that has stood the test of time. It is often chosen for weddings, with its original version for strings being particularly popular. The piece builds in intensity, making it a perfect choice for the procession as the nearlyweds make their way towards the altar.
Gabriel's Oboe by Ennio Morricone
Also known as "Nella Fantasia", this composition by Morricone is the main theme of the 1986 film "The Mission". It is a beautiful and uplifting piece that has become a wedding favourite, especially for religious ceremonies.
Bridal Chorus from Wagner's Opera Lohengrin
Commonly known as "Here Comes the Bride", this traditional bridal chorus is a classic choice for the procession. The original lyrics are in German, but the playful English version, with its recognisable melody, is often associated with weddings.
Arrival of the Queen of Sheba by Handel
Handel's majestic and celebratory piece is a great choice for the bridal party's entrance or exit. It is a classic and elegant way to make a statement and leave the ceremony on a high note.
Wachet Auf by Bach
For a church ceremony, "Wachet Auf" by Bach is an excellent organ piece to create a solemn and elegant atmosphere as guests arrive and take their seats.
Spring from Vivaldi's Four Seasons
Vivaldi's "Spring" is a lively and vibrant piece that can add a touch of energy to your wedding. It is a wonderful choice to keep the mood upbeat and joyful, especially if you are looking for something more modern, with Max Richter's "Recomposed" version being a popular alternative.
Hymne à l'Amour by Édith Piaf/Marguerite Monnot
For a touch of sentimentality, Édith Piaf's "Hymne à l'Amour" is a popular choice. This transcription of her famous song is a wonderful way to add a romantic and memorable moment to your ceremony.
The Swan by Saint-Saëns
"The Swan" by Saint-Saëns is a serene and elegant composition that can set a peaceful and graceful tone for your ceremony. It is often chosen for its sweeping melody and the beautiful version for cello and harp duet.
Joyful Overture by Grandjany
For a unique and intimate ceremony, consider Grandjany's "Joyful Overture", also known as "A la Hornpipe" or "Water Music". This harp solo is calming and simple, bringing a smile and a warm feeling to your guests.
These classical music selections are timeless choices that can add elegance and tradition to your wedding. Whether played by a string quartet, harpist, pianist, or a full orchestra, these pieces will create a memorable and well-rehearsed atmosphere for your special day.
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Processional songs
The processional is when the groom, wedding party, and parents or grandparents enter the ceremony, followed by the bride, who is traditionally last to enter. The processional music can be a traditional hymn or a popular tune that everyone knows. Here are some traditional processional song suggestions:
Canon in D
A timeless classic, Canon in D is a popular processional song that builds in intensity, starting with a solo cello and ending with a violin performance. It is a well-known piece of music that has influenced the songs of many popular artists.
Arrival of the Queen of Sheba
Written by Handel, this song is a majestic and ceremonial choice for the processional. It is a joyful and celebratory piece, originally composed to mark the birthday of Queen Anne in 1713.
Bridal Chorus
For a traditional wedding, the Bridal Chorus, also known as "Here Comes the Bride," is a popular choice. Composed by Richard Wagner in 1850, this song is sure to tug at the heartstrings of you and your guests.
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring
Bach's music is a beautiful choice for a wedding, and "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" is an excellent selection for strings, brass, harp, or organ. While the original lyrics are in German, the playful English lyrics associated with the melody make it perfect for a traditional wedding.
Water Music
For a wedding near or on the water, consider Handel's "Water Music." This collection of orchestral movements was originally performed on the River Thames for King George I. It is a celebratory piece, sometimes known as "A la Hornpipe" or as a harp solo, "Joyful Overture."
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Recessional songs
The recessional song is played at the end of the wedding ceremony, as the newlyweds and wedding party walk back up the aisle. It is the first song the couple will hear as a married couple, so it should be a thoughtful and romantic choice. It can be a classical instrumental piece, a sacred wedding song, an acoustic cover, traditional cultural music, or a current hit.
If you're looking for a classical piece, you could opt for Pachelbel's Canon in D, which builds in intensity, or the Bridal Chorus from Wagner's 1850 opera Lohengrin, more popularly known as "Here Comes the Bride". Mozart is also a popular choice for weddings, with his works providing a sublime and suspenseful backdrop to the ceremony.
For a more modern recessional song, you could choose a fun and upbeat tune like Outkast's "Hey Ya" or The Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling". Arcade Fire's "Wake Up" is a recognisable, movie-ending closer that will provide a dramatic exit. If you're looking for a classic hit, you can't go wrong with The Beatles or Stevie Wonder.
If you're after something more traditional, "Wedding March" from A Midsummer Night's Dream by Felix Mendelssohn is a common crowd-pleaser. For a unique choice, you could try "You're the One That I Want" from Grease by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta.
Ultimately, the choice of recessional song is a personal one, and you should pick whatever speaks to you as a couple.
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Religious ceremony songs
Music is an integral part of a wedding ceremony, and for religious ceremonies, the songs chosen can add a lot of depth and meaning to the occasion. Here are some suggestions for songs to play at a religious wedding ceremony:
The Bridal Chorus, also known as "Here Comes the Bride," by Richard Wagner, is a traditional and popular choice for the processional. The original lyrics are in German and are from the libretto of Wagner's opera, Lohengrin. The English lyrics, though not original, are well-known and playful, making this melody a classic choice for a traditional wedding ceremony.
Pachelbel's Canon in D is another well-known and beloved piece for the processional. Starting with a solo cello, it builds in intensity until reaching a blaze of violin virtuosity, perfectly timed for when the couple meets at the altar.
For a religious ceremony, hymns are a great way to involve the congregation and create a sense of community. Most church ceremonies include two to three hymns, and it is advisable to choose lively songs with simple tunes to encourage everyone to join in.
If you're looking for something elegant and classical, Mozart's compositions for organ and choir are sublime. If you have a string quartet, they can play one of the lovely arrangements for strings.
For a touch of drama and suspense, a Mozart piece will leave your guests on the edge of their seats, especially during the bouquet toss.
Bach's "Wachet Auf" is a wonderful organ piece to play as guests arrive, and Vivaldi's "Spring" from The Four Seasons will keep the tempo upbeat.
Handel's compositions are also excellent choices for a religious ceremony. "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba" is a majestic and glorious piece, perfect for making a grand entrance or exit. "La Réjouissance," meaning rejoicing, is another celebratory piece by Handel that will leave your ceremony on a high note.
These suggestions are just a small selection of the many beautiful songs that can enhance the atmosphere of a religious wedding ceremony.
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Non-traditional wedding songs
While traditional wedding songs are popular, many couples opt for non-traditional songs to make their wedding unique and memorable. Choosing non-traditional songs can be a fun way to showcase the couple's personalities and love story. Here are some ideas for non-traditional wedding songs to make your big day stand out:
Entrance and Exit Songs
If you're looking for a grand entrance or a memorable exit, consider songs like "She's My Coconut" by Bill Baylis and Simon Stewart, "C'est La Vie" by B*Witched, "Move It Like This" by Baha Men, or "The Rockafeelr Skank" by Fatboy Slim. These songs will definitely set a fun and playful tone for your wedding.
First Dance Songs
The first dance is a special moment for the newlyweds, and choosing a unique song can make it even more meaningful. Some non-traditional first dance songs to consider are "I Melt With You" by Modern English, "I Will Follow You Into The Dark" by Death Cab For Cutie, or "Always" by Blink-182. If you're a fan of Taylor Swift, her songs like "Today Was A Fairytale" can also be perfect for your first dance.
Classical and Instrumental Songs
Classical music adds elegance and sophistication to your wedding. However, you can make it non-traditional by choosing lesser-known pieces or contemporary options. Consider "Concerning Hobbits" from The Lord of the Rings by Howard Shore, "Gabriel's Oboe" from The Mission by Ennio Morricone, or "HYMNE À L'AMOUR" by Édith Piaf and Marguerite Monnot. These songs offer a modern twist while maintaining the beauty and grandeur of classical music.
Personalized Choices
Ultimately, the best non-traditional wedding songs are those that resonate with you and your partner. Choose songs that reflect your journey, interests, or unique love story. Whether it's a song from your favourite movie, a meaningful pop song, or a hidden gem that only you know, incorporating these non-traditional choices will make your wedding day truly yours.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many traditional songs to choose from for your wedding. If you're looking for a classic, you can't go wrong with the ""Bridal Chorus" by Richard Wagner, popularly known as "Here Comes the Bride". Other traditional songs include Pachelbel's "Canon in D", Bach's "Air in G" or "Air on the G String", and Saint-Saëns’ "The Swan".
Firstly, consider your venue's rules and size. Certain venues, like churches, may have strict guidelines on the songs that can be played. The type of ceremony and wedding theme are also important factors. For example, if you're having a country-themed wedding, you might want to play country tunes.
There are no hard and fast rules, but it's recommended to pick at least five songs for your wedding ceremony: one for the processional, three for any moments in between, and one for the recessional.
