Music for the ceremony

Music helps to create atmosphere. The right music pulls your wedding plans together. The "wrong" music can bury any plans you may have made. Take the time to select the right music and the right venue for it. Seek out expert advice, audition musicians and know the mood you want to create for your wedding. Make sure it matches the surroundings. Make sure you like it. You search out the "right" florist and photographer. Do the same for the professionals that will have so much impact on the ceremony and reception you have planned.

The first rule is of course, to check with the church or synagogue about any restrictions in place. If there are-you must follow them. If there are few, here are some guidelines to help you plan this important part of the ceremony.

a) The music should start about 30 minutes before the ceremony. Introductory music is usually instrumental to set the mood. If there is to be a solo, it is usually sung just after the mother of the bride is seated. This lets the people know that the processional is about to begin.

b) The processional is usually an instrumental which has a good regular beat to walk to. Once the attendants have all reached the altar, music changes and "announces" the bride's entrance and her walk down the aisle. This music can be contemporary or traditional depending on tastes. It is usually instrumental but a solo can be chosen.

c) One or two songs may be played during the ceremony. More than that is usually considered too much.

d) The recessional music is likely to be upbeat and a slightly quicker tempo than the processional.
e) It is likely you will want live music for the ceremony but recorded music is being used in some places.

To get some idea of the kind of music you might choose, visit a local music store or go on line to search out sites which list music ideas. A good place to start is with http://www.bridalguide.com/. To get you started, here are some of the most popular and most played ceremony choices:

BRIDAL CHORUS by Lohengrin-known as Here Comes the Bride

WEDDING MARCH by Mendelssohn-from Midsummer Night's Dream

WEDDING MARCH by Alexander Guilmant

THE WEDDING SONG by Peter, Paul and Mary

EVERGREEN by Barbara Streisand