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Wedding Ceremony Music

Choosing music for your wedding ceremony shouldn't be a harrowing experience. In this section, we'll break down the standard parts of a wedding ceremony that usually have music, standard choices for the various musical pieces, and the types of musicians you may need based on the "feel" or "setting" of your wedding.

Parts of a Wedding Ceremony

Prelude

Preludes are the quiet, mood-setting music leading up to the ceremony. Usually 20-30 minutes long, the preludes set the tone for the service. If you're having an informal or non-traditional service, you can opt for some lively pieces. Some churches have specific pieces they will allow and not allow, so make sure you check with them before making final selections. The last prelude is generally reserved for the seating of the mothers and/or grandmothers.

Processional

The processionals accompany the bridal party as they walk down the aisle. Depending on the length of the aisle and the tastes of the bride/groom, you can use one or two separate processionals. Both are generally stately and majestic, but if you're using two, try to save the "punch" for the bride's processional. Once you pick them, make sure you go over the specific part of each piece you'd like to walk down the aisle to, as processionals generally only last 30-60 seconds depending on the aisle and how fast the bride walks.

Interlude, Service Music

Interludes are important in both traditional and non-traditional services. Make sure you check with your church when picking service music, as many churches have certain pieces they will allow and not allow. The songs listed here come from both classical and popular music.

Recessional

The recessional is the time to shine for the bride and groom. This is generally the liveliest piece of the wedding. Lots of movement and notes, with a fast, festive tempo. The music should mirror the festive mood that concludes the ceremony. This is generally a great place for the trumpet, especially a piccolo trumpet.

Postlude

The postlude is a new but popular entry into the wedding ceremony. Think of it as a transition from the ceremony to the reception. The formality of the ceremony is juxtaposed with the festive, "let your hair down" atmosphere of the wedding reception. Many of the pieces are therefore light classical, jazz, or popular music to help make that transition as guests leave the ceremony area after the recessional.

Types of Musicians

The type and number of musicians will be guided by your personal taste, and of course by your budget. This list is just a suggestion for those of you looking for somewhere to start. To learn more about the various instruments and ensembles we offer, visit our brass ensemble and string ensemble pages.

If there are topics you'd like to know more about, or other topics you'd like to see here, please contact us.