Wedding Music and Musicians
An increasing number of people who are getting married these days require wedding musicians and music that not only fit into the setting of a church but also reflect the feeling that the couple wish to create. So here are a few tips for the possibilities of music and musicians.
The Church Wedding Music
Deciding on the music for a wedding in church may be quite clear-cut. However, it often depends whether you decide on traditional music or go for a more modern choice where the Bride and groom pick music that is more contemporary or means something special to them.
Perhaps the most important music is the Bride’s processional piece. The traditional music for this is the “Bridal Chorus” by Wagner also known as “Here Comes the Bride”. However, more frequently, couples are choosing pieces that reflect their own tastes in music which may include Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” or “Jesu Joy of Mans Desiring”, both of which are very well liked. “The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba” also makes a great entry piece.
You may find that you want more hymns included in the wedding than time will allow. These may include: Love divine all loves excelling and Lead us heavenly Father lead us. Of course if you desire a lighter style of hymn like all things bright and beautiful or morning has broken and make me a channel of your peace, are all ideal.
The next decision could be deciding on the music to have during the signing of the register. If you decide to have a soloist, he or she may have a repertoire from which to choose. However, the choir may sing a suitable piece or the organist play until the Bride and groom complete their task of signing the register.
The Bride and Groom’s exit, or recessional music is often the customary “Wedding March” by Mendelssohn but it is also quite common to have Vidor’s “Toccata” – just to test the organist! Or a “Trumpet Voluntary” by Clarke or Purcell.
Wedding Musicians
An organist and choir are not the only option for a wedding ceremony. Couples regularly opt for a flute and classical guitar or a flute and harpist at wedding ceremonies. This happens mainly when couples decide not to have any hymns!
This may seem rather unusual, but not all couples who have a wedding ceremony held in a church setting, also want traditional hymns. This is even more so when it comes to civil ceremonies, where music with a religious connection is often not allowed. Other options for wedding musicians may include a pianist or string quartet.
No matter what wedding musicians or music pieces you may choose, it is the Bride and groom who should have the final approval, after all, it is their special day.