Music for weddings: When and what should you play?
Wedding Inspiration — 23rd August 2023
Figuring out the right music for your wedding day is a big part of the planning process…
When it comes to planning a wedding, music holds the power to create an enchanting and unforgettable atmosphere.
A common question we get asked is what kind of music should you play and when?
From the romantic melodies that accompany your walk down the aisle to the upbeat tunes that fill the dance floor, music at weddings sets the tone for every moment of your special day.
So, let’s explore the various stages of music for weddings and highlight when it’s ideal to incorporate music into each part of the day.
Join us as we delve into the world of wedding music and discover how it can elevate your big day.
Wedding Prelude: Setting the Ambience
As guests begin to arrive and anticipation fills the air, the prelude is the perfect time to have music gently playing in the background.
Soft, instrumental tunes or light background music can create a welcoming atmosphere and set the mood ahead of the ceremony.
Consider incorporating instrumental classics, elegant compositions, or even acoustic renditions of popular love songs to create a soothing ambience that prepares everyone for the upcoming celebration.
The Processional: The Grand Entrance
The processional is the moment when the wedding party makes their entrance, culminating in the bride’s majestic walk down the aisle.
This is undoubtedly one of the most emotional and highly anticipated moments of the ceremony.
Opting for live music during the processional can add an extra layer of sentimentality and beauty.
Whether you choose a live vocalist, a string quartet, or a solo instrumentalist (like a wedding pianist or harpist), the live performance will enhance the grandeur and significance of this special moment.
Ceremony: Uniting in Harmony
The wedding ceremony itself offers plenty of opportunities to infuse music into your wedding.
A live vocalist or instrumentalist can perform a heartfelt song that holds special meaning to you as a couple as part of your service, or an instrumental group can provide the background for a family member or friend to perform a dedicated piece.
These musical interludes can elevate the emotional impact of the ceremony, creating a truly unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
We also recommend having at least two songs ready to play while you sign the register. This is a more intimate part of the ceremony and guests might struggle to see what’s going on. Having music will keep them engaged and feeling like part of the ceremony.
However, in the UK there are rules when it comes to music for wedding ceremonies. If you’re having a civil ceremony, no religious music is allowed, so your song choices will need to be carefully selected to make sure they don’t include any references to religion, even in passing.
Recessional: Celebratory Fanfare
As the newlyweds make their joyous exit after exchanging vows, the recessional marks the transition from the seriousness of the ceremony to the jubilant celebration that awaits.
It’s the perfect moment to choose an uplifting, upbeat song that represents your excitement and love.
A lively instrumental performance or a lively band can create a festive atmosphere, encouraging your guests to join in the celebration and set the stage for the joyous reception to come.
Drinks Reception: Entertaining Your Guests
The drinks reception is a time for guests to mingle, sip on refreshing beverages, and enjoy light snacks.
While you head off to have your photography done live musicians can keep your guests entertained (they won’t even notice you’ve left).
If you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication and entertainment to the atmosphere, consider having a live jazz band, a pianist, or an acoustic duo to create a pleasant backdrop for conversations, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy socialising while enjoying the musical ambience.
If you want to get guests in the party mood or to provide more of a focal point, you might choose a two or three-piece live band to play a 45-minute set that will get people dancing ahead of your evening celebrations.
Reception: Dance the Night Away
The reception is when the celebration truly kicks into high gear, and the music becomes the heartbeat of the party.
Whether you choose a live band or a DJ, the reception is the time for non-stop dancing, laughter, and fun.
A live band can bring electrifying energy, playing a mix of genres and engaging with the crowd to keep the dance floor alive.
Alternatively, a skilled DJ can curate a playlist that caters to different tastes and ensures a seamless flow of music throughout the night.
But before all of that, you’ll want to take to the floor for your first dance as a married couple. The first dance is an iconic part of any wedding and having a live band or musician can really elevate the experience.
At Musique our musicians are always happy to take requests for the first dance (even if it’s not usually a part of their repertoire) to ensure that you have a truly special and memorable moment.
Summary
Music has the incredible ability to infuse every moment of your wedding day with emotion, romance, and celebration.
By strategically incorporating live music into each stage, you can enhance the atmosphere, captivate your guests, and create lasting memories.
From the prelude to the reception, each segment of your wedding offers unique opportunities to showcase the power of music. So, embrace the magic of melodies and let the music be the enchanting soundtrack to your special day.