George Boyle
Walking down the aisle is one of the most significant parts of a wedding day. The right music can make the moment even more special, and there are many songs to choose from, whether you're after a classical favourite or a modern pop ballad. If you're looking for something traditional, you might opt for Here Comes the Bride or the Wedding March. However, many couples choose to break tradition and explore unique wedding processional songs.
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What You'll Learn
Classical music vs modern pop ballads
The walk down the aisle is one of the most memorable experiences of a wedding day, and the right music can make the moment even more special. Classical music is a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, with many couples opting for timeless, elegant, and instrumental pieces. Classical music provides a sense of sophistication and gravitas, and its timelessness means that couples won't regret their choice years later.
One of the most well-known classical wedding songs is "The Wedding March" by Mendelssohn, also known as "Here Comes the Bride" by Wagner. Other popular classical choices include Pachelbel's "Canon in D Major", Beethoven's classics, Mozart's flute overture, and Bach's compositions. These classical pieces offer a sense of tradition and elegance to the ceremony.
However, modern pop ballads are also a common choice for wedding processionals. Couples may choose a romantic song by a popular artist to set the tone for their celebration. For instance, a couple might opt for a soulful R&B love song, such as "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Kinna Grannis, or a pop ballad like "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston. Some couples also choose to include modern songs in their wedding by using classical covers of pop songs, such as those by the Vitamin String Quartet, which covers artists like My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy.
Ultimately, the choice between classical music and modern pop ballads depends on the couple's preferences and the atmosphere they want to create. Classical music lends a sense of tradition, elegance, and timelessness, while modern pop ballads can be romantic, soulful, and fun, reflecting the couple's personalities and creating an unforgettable entrance.
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Traditional songs like Here Comes the Bride
The traditional wedding song "Here Comes the Bride" is a well-known processional song that has been used in countless weddings. However, modern weddings are seeing a shift towards more contemporary and personalised song choices. If you're looking for alternatives to the classic "Here Comes the Bride", here are some traditional songs that you can consider for your walk down the aisle:
Mendelssohn's "The Wedding March"
A timeless classic that is often associated with the image of a bride walking down the aisle. This elegant and sophisticated instrumental piece is a popular choice for couples who want to incorporate traditional elements into their wedding.
Pachelbel's "Canon in D Major"
Also known as "Canon in D", this classical masterpiece is a popular choice for brides who want a grand and elegant entrance. The song's soaring strings and angelic vocals make it a perfect fit for a traditional wedding.
Bach Composition
A moving and swelling Bach piece is a popular choice for couples who want to add instant sophistication and gravitas to their ceremony. The gentle piano introduction and delicately soaring vocals create an unforgettable and powerful start to the wedding.
Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" from Symphony 9
This classical composition by Beethoven is a joyful and uplifting choice for a wedding processional. The recognisable melody and majestic opera voices will create a memorable entrance for the bride.
Viennese Waltz
If you're looking for something upbeat and lively, the Viennese Waltz is a striking choice. This trumpet melody will add a touch of elegance and theatre to your wedding, creating a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests.
These traditional songs offer a beautiful alternative to "Here Comes the Bride" while still maintaining the elegance and sentimentality of a classic wedding. Ultimately, the choice of music for your walk down the aisle is a personal one, and you can choose to incorporate modern or unconventional songs that reflect your personality and style as a couple.
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Popular romantic hits vs forgotten gems
Choosing the right song to walk down the aisle to is an important part of wedding planning. The music can make the moment even more special, and the right tune can capture the couple's style and personality. While some couples opt for popular romantic hits, others may prefer to seek out forgotten gems.
Popular Romantic Hits
Popular romantic hits are songs that are well-known and loved by many. These songs are often chosen because they are familiar and have a broad appeal. They can be classic love songs or modern ballads that have become popular wedding choices. For example, "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley or Twenty One Pilots, and "All of Me" by John Legend are all popular choices for walking down the aisle. These songs are likely to be recognised by guests and can create a sense of warmth and familiarity.
Forgotten Gems
Forgotten gems, on the other hand, are songs that may be less well-known or are unique choices for a wedding. These songs can be special to the couple for a variety of reasons. They might be meaningful because of their lyrics, a shared memory, or simply because they are different and reflect the couple's individuality. For instance, "As The World Falls Down" from the movie Labyrinth, or an instrumental version of "Early Sunsets Over Monroeville" by My Chemical Romance are less conventional choices that can make the wedding even more personalised and memorable.
In the end, the choice of song is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. Whether it's a popular romantic hit or a forgotten gem, the most important thing is that the song reflects the couple's style and makes their walk down the aisle even more magical.
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Soloists or ensembles
If you're looking for a traditional sound with a modern twist, consider hiring a ceremony musician like a soloist or ensemble to perform live music for your wedding ceremony. A string quartet, for example, can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your special day.
For a timeless and traditional choice, you can opt for classical entrance tunes like "Here Comes the Bride" (also known as "The Bridal Chorus" or "The Bride's March"), composed by Richard Wagner in 1850, or the "Wedding March" by Mendelssohn, which was even used by Shakespeare in "A Midsummer Night's Dream." These classical compositions are sure to command attention and create a memorable entrance.
If you're seeking a blend of classical and contemporary, consider a string quartet or solo violin version of a modern song. For instance, the instrumental version of "All of Me" by John Legend can provide a beautiful twist to a traditional ceremony. Alternatively, you can choose a cover version of a popular song, such as the Piano Guys' cover of "A Thousand Years."
For a unique and personalized touch, you can also commission a ceremony musician to create custom arrangements of your favourite songs or even compose an original piece specifically for your wedding. This option allows you to incorporate your favourite genres, whether it's soulful R&B, country, or something else entirely. Working with a soloist or ensemble gives you the flexibility to tailor the music to your preferences and create a seamless representation of your relationship.
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Instrumental songs
One of the most beloved classics is "Canon in D" by Johann Pachelbel, known for its romantic and delicate nature. The ethereal piece by Debussy, with its gentle melody and elegant harmonies, evokes a sense of grace and beauty, making it a popular option for weddings. Another timeless choice is "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy, which sets a soothing and contemplative mood.
For a grand and ceremonial entrance, "Trumpet Tune" is a fantastic option, while "Concerning Hobbits" from The Lord of the Rings soundtrack will boost everyone's mood. "Prelude in C Major" by Bach is also a cheerful and optimistic choice, known for its uplifting and cinematic quality. Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" is another iconic and majestic piece that has been a staple at weddings for generations.
If you're looking for something more modern, a contemporary instrumental version of "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri, with a combination of piano and cello, creates a heartfelt and emotional atmosphere. The Vitamin String Quartet also offers gorgeous acoustic renditions of popular tunes, perfect for processionals or first dances.
For a whimsical and joyful touch, you might consider a ukulele instrumental of a classic song, or a fun piano and cello rendition of Coldplay's house-pop songs. A full-bodied string ensemble can also add a magical touch to your walk down the aisle, with songs like Leonard Cohen's indie-folk hymn or the timeless "Hallelujah."
With so many options, from classical elegance to modern charm, you can find the perfect instrumental song to set the tone for your unforgettable wedding day.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditional songs for walking down the aisle include "Here Comes the Bride", "Wedding March", and "I Was Glad".
Non-traditional songs for walking down the aisle include "Better Together" by Jack Johnson, "As The World Falls Down" by Vitamin String Quartet, and "Disenchanted" by My Chemical Romance.
When choosing a song to walk down the aisle to, consider whether you want an upbeat track or something slower and more atmospheric. You can also hire a musician, such as a soloist or ensemble, to perform the song live.
In addition to choosing a song, you should also consider who will walk down the aisle with you. In the UK, the tradition is for the bride to walk down the aisle with her father, while in the US, the bridesmaids typically lead the way before the bride and her father enter.
Popular genres for wedding songs include classical, modern, R&B, country, and pop ballads.
