Ceremony music tips
You are not permitted to have any music during a Civil Ceremony that is overtly religious. Though rules are somewhat more relaxed than in the past, your Registrar will advise and vet your choices.
There are literally millions of pieces of modern wedding music that don’t have any religious association. Choose classical music for your ceremony and have lighter pop music during your drinks reception.
Consider choosing two contrasting pieces of music that are moderate length. The first should be contemplative while the guests enter and the second could hint at the celebrations to follow the ceremony.
Choose something celebratory, when your guests leave, that can be heard alongside the happy throng.
If you have the budget, then live wedding music will feel much more personal and special. Harps, string quartets and pianists are the most popular choices. They can also stay at your reception afterwards during your wedding photographs, drinks and canapés.
If you find a title you like on a modern wedding music CD or a website, then make sure you check the title and composer with another couple of similar sources to make sure it is correct.
Modern wedding music for your ceremony
Bridal March from ‘Lohengrin’ (Here comes the Bride) – Wagner
Canon in D – Pachelbel
Trumpet Voluntary – Jeremiah Clarke
Arrival of the Queen of Sheba – G F Handel
Ave Maria – J S Bach/C Gounod
Adagio – Albinoni arr. Giazotto
Panis Angelicus – C Franck
Wedding March – ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ – Mendelssohn
Toccata from Organ Symphony no 5- C M Widor
Alla Danza / Hornpipe from ‘Water Music’ – G F Handel
