Perfecting the Wedding Background Music: A Guide for Couples and DJs

Planning a wedding is a complex and joyful journey, with every detail mattering. One often-overlooked element is the background music that sets the tone and enhances the ambiance throughout the ceremony and reception. For those involved in organizing such events, choosing the right music can make all the difference. This guide dives into what kind of background music is suitable for different parts of a wedding ceremony, from the prelude to the recessional, and offers insight from a professional who has played cello at hundreds of weddings a year.

Prelude Music: Setting the Right Tone

The prelude music serves as the backdrop to the first guests arriving, playing a significant role in setting the stage for the day ahead. You can opt for pure classical music, religious music, or a mix of both, depending on the setting and the couple's preferences. As a professional cello player involved in dozens of weddings annually, I find that the choice often correlates with the type of ceremony music selected. Here are a few popular options:

Pure Classical: Tchaikovsky#39;s Swan Lake, Limousine, The Blue Danube by Johann Strauss Religious: Hallelujah from Handel's Messiah, Lord Bless You and Keep You by Queen Mixed: Pieces from the operas of Verdi and Puccini, spirituals, and folk songs

Seating of the Mother and Grandmother: A Sentimental Choice

While not entirely necessary, offering a special piece of music for the seating of the mother and grandmothers can add a personal touch. A song chosen by the mother or grandmother is a meaningful gesture that preserves precious memories. Whether it's a traditional piece or a more contemporary selection, the significance of the music will be deeply felt by those present.

Wedding Party Entrance: A Time for Unity

The entrance of the wedding party, including the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and the officiant, is often filled with festive and vibrant music. Choose something that you all enjoy, creating a harmonious and celebratory atmosphere. Options can range from traditional wedding march music to modern hits that resonate with your guests. The key here is to pick music that strikes the right balance between unity and individuality.

Bridal Entrance: The Grand Finale

The bridal entrance is perhaps the most crucial moment of the entire ceremony, making it the perfect opportunity to shine through the choice of music. Gone are the days when Wagner's Bridal Chorus was the only choice. Today, couples can select a song that holds special meaning to them, such as a British Royal wedding anthem, a popular movie wedding theme, or simply their favorite love song. The freedom to choose allows for a more personalized and memorable experience.

Popular British Royal Wedding Anthem: Placeholder for Real Anthem Popular Movie Wedding Theme: The Proposal from Carter Lang-Carter Lang or Bridal Chorus from The Sound of Music Personal Favorite: Placeholder for Couple's Favorite Song

Special Moments: Extraordinary Music for Extraordinary Events

Special music is often performed during significant moments within the ceremony, such as the mixing of sand to symbolize the coming together of two lives or the performance of communion. These moments are unique to each couple, making them perfect opportunities to incorporate music that holds special meaning. While these opportunities have diminished in recent years, they can still be a beautiful addition when included.

Bridal Exit or Recessional: The Ultimate Freedom

The recessional is a time to let your hair down and have fun with the music. From classic choices like Mendelssohn's Bridal Chorus to current hits from the Top Ten Radio stations, the possibilities are endless. Recently, I played the theme from BBC Nature series Hoppipola and even Enter Sandman at a previous wedding, offering a unique and memorable touch.

Suggestions for Happy vs. Slow Songs

When it comes to choosing the perfect balance between happy and slow songs, it all depends on the couple's taste and the tone of the event. Here are some examples:

Slow Songs

Hoppìpola by Sigur Rós Mirrors by Justin Timberlake The Only Exception by Paramore Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran Instrumental Pieces

Happy Songs

Celebration by Kool the Gang Sugar by Maroon 5 Treasure by Bruno Mars Marry You by Bruno Mars Happy by Pharrell Williams

In conclusion, the selection of wedding background music significantly impacts the overall atmosphere and the emotional journey of the day. Whether it's a classic cello performance, a mix of new and old hits, or special performances by the couple and their loved ones, the right music can turn a good ceremony into a spectacular one. For those daunting wedding days, just remember that the hard part is over, and now the partying can begin!