When planning your wedding, one of the most memorable and personal elements is the music. The right music can set the tone for your entire event, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories. Imagine watching your favourite film without a soundtrack - how flat and incomplete it would feel. The same goes for your wedding; thoughtfully chosen music brings your special day to life. As a professional wedding and events pianist, I’ve had the privilege of helping many couples curate the perfect soundtrack for their big day. Here’s your ultimate guide to choosing wedding music that will reflect your unique love story and enhance every moment of your celebration.
The structure of the day
Weddings typically have several key musical moments, which can be broken down into three main parts: the ceremony, the drinks reception, and the wedding breakfast. You have the flexibility to decide whether you'd like me to play at all three parts of your wedding day or just one or two parts. If you opt to have me play throughout the whole day, this can really create a sense of cohesion and familiarity, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the celebrations that little bit more as they quickly warm to my presence.
Ceremony:
Pre-Ceremony Music: Sets the mood as guests arrive and take their seats. This creates the perfect ambiance and anticipation for the ceremony.
Processional: The entrance of the wedding party and/or bride
Signing of the Register: Music during the signing of the register, providing a reflective and intimate background. Usually two songs is ample.
Recessional: Music as the newlyweds exit the ceremony, celebrating their union with an uplifting tune.
Drinks Reception:
Background Music: Light and enjoyable music while guests mingle and enjoy drinks, creating a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Usually the newlyweds are busy having photographs taken at this point.
Wedding Breakfast:
Entrance Music: A special piece to mark the couple’s grand entrance to the meal.
Background Music: Music throughout the meal, enhancing the dining experience and maintaining a joyful ambiance
Reflect Your Personality & Style
Your wedding music should be a reflection of you as a couple, capturing your unique personalities and style. Consider the following to personalize your selections:
Favourite Songs: Choose songs that hold special meaning in your relationship, whether they're from your first date or your road trip playlists.
Musical Preferences: Think about your favourite genres or artists that resonate with you both. Whether you're into indie, pop, rock, jazz, or something else entirely, let your musical tastes shine.
Themed Vibes: Add a touch of magic by incorporating themes like musicals, Disney classics, or a rock and roll edge. Or, opt for a jazzy feel to bring some old-school glamour to your celebration.
Whatever you choose, your wedding music should be a reflection of your love story, setting the perfect tone for your celebration.
Be as Hands-On or Hands-Off as You Like
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and I'm here to alleviate some of that stress. You have the flexibility to tailor your involvement in the music selection process according to your preferences. Whether you prefer a hands-on approach or would rather leave the details to me, the choice is entirely yours.
For most couples, the most important musical moments are typically the entrance of the bride (or alternative) and the exit. These are the moments that truly set the tone for your ceremony, and you may want to focus solely on selecting the perfect songs for these key moments. For the rest, you can relax and trust in my expertise to ensure that every musical aspect of your wedding day exceeds your expectations, resonating with the emotions of each moment.
During the more social parts of your day—such as the pre-ceremony, drinks reception, and wedding breakfast— I'll select fitting pieces that enhance the ambience and flow seamlessly with the atmosphere of your celebration, drawing on my extensive experience. You might want to suggest a mood or musical genre but you don't need to specify individual songs (unless you want to of course!).
Enjoy the process
Planning the music for your wedding doesn't need to be daunting and, when you book an experienced musician like myself for your big day, you can relax knowing that you are in safe hands. And, if you're anything like me, selecting the music for your wedding is the best and most important part of the planning process! Picking out the tunes for your big day is an opportunity to infuse your celebration with your unique style and personality. So, embrace this opportunity to craft your own unique soundtrack that reflects who you are as a couple and make your wedding day truly memorable.
If you have any questions or need personalized recommendations, feel free to reach out. I’m here to make your wedding music dreams come true!
Comments