Wedding Ceremony Music Tips

When people think of wedding music, their thoughts typically turn to reception music, as it is the reception music that keeps the party going. But when you're thinking about wedding music, don't forget the ceremony music! It is the processional and the recessional that set the mood. The music that is played before the ceremony even starts keeps guests amused as they wait for the big entrance. And, if your ceremony is a religious one, the music played during the ceremony itself can clue less religious guests into the solemnity of the ceremony.

The following tips can help ensure that your wedding music is the perfect backdrop to your ceremony, from start to finish.

• If you're not going to ask your wedding DJ to provide the music, try to book your musicians at least one year in advance. Think about whether you would prefer an ensemble or a soloist. Don't forget to factor in cost!
• Make sure your wedding ceremony location has room for your wedding musicians and their equipment. If your wedding will take place in a house of worship, ask your officiant whether there are rules regarding music and musicians.
• Ask if there are any acoustical considerations at your ceremony venue. Your wedding musicians may need to adjust their volume or use specific equipment.
• If you're not sure what musical selections to choose, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from your musician. Aside from the wedding standards, she should be able to suggest several options. Don't be afraid to go against the grain and choose music that is meaningful to you.
• Don't be afraid to mix music styles. Whether you're trendy or traditional, a mixture of classical and soft contemporary has wide appeal.
• To avoid your first few guests sitting in silence, have your wedding musicians start at least a half hour before the ceremony, preferably as the first guests begin arriving. You can choose the music that is played at this point or let your musician choose popular standards.
• While it's not necessary to have a special wedding song during the ceremony, it can lend a poignant and moving moment for guests, family, and the couple. You may choose to have a musical number during the exchange of rings or lighting of the unity candle.
• Pay attention to song lengths. If the bride will be walking down the aisle, prelude music length should coincide with song length. It's best for prelude music to fade out, not stop abruptly or play too long. If you having music mid-ceremony during the ring exchange or unity candle, the times should coincide as well.

Rememberthat carefully chosen ceremony musicians will leave a lasting impression for your guests and a precious memory for you and your partner.

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