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QUICK LEARN:
ceremony music
Many couples simply want a
traditional approach when it comes to choosing music for their wedding
ceremony. They want time-tested and familiar selections we've all
come to associate and cherish with traditional weddings.
This approach has worked for many, many times before and will continue to
do so well in the future. Here's some thoughts if you're wanting to
do things just a little bit differently...
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While tradition still has its place, many Brides and Grooms are now choosing
to use non-traditional wedding ceremony music. Many of the old standbys, such
as Wagner's (pronounced Vahg-ner's)
"Bridal Chorus"
are being replaced with other alternatives. Those about to wed have requested
slow rock,
love songs ,
Latin guitar,
new age,
classic 40's vocals, pop songs, oldies and just about everything else.
Many couples have discovered a group called
Vitamin String Quartet ,
an L.A. collection of musicians
who classically cover hundreds of popular songs from bands such as
Journey,
Gun's N' Roses,
Beatles and a whole lot more. Kind of quirky, yes. Kind of cool though
and no doubt your guests will enjoy classical renditions of some of their
all-time favorite songs.
Choosing Your Songs
The first step is just to think of songs you like. You can edit your ideas
later. Make a short list of songs that relate to how you feel about love,
commitment and a special shared relationship. Feel free to consider all options.
Once you've made your list you can then edit it for potential processional
song candidates. Remember that in general, a processional song should have
a slow cadence for those walking down the aisle.
Choices have included songs by
Nat King Cole,
Sting,
Andrea Bocelli,
Mark Cohn,
Peter Gabriel,
Enya,
The Beatles,
Shania Twain,
Vangelis,
Aretha Franklin,
Van Morrison,
Tony Bennett,
Edwin McCain,
Vangelis,
Faith Hill,
Etta James,
Sade
and
movie/show soundtracks
songs. Your choices are virtually unlimited.
Here Comes The Bride
Should all the songs in your ceremony have a consistent sound or theme? Not
necessarily. A contrasting style between the Wedding Party Processional and
the Bride's song can emphasize this important change. An example of this was
when one couple chose an operatic,
Andrea Bocelli
piece for their Wedding Party Processional. The song was full of drama and
grand expression.
In stark contrast to this was their choice for the Bride's Processional. They
decided on the romantic and reflective acoustic guitar sound of "The
Rain Song" by
Led Zeppelin.
The pronounced difference in song styles increased the poignancy of the Bride's
appearance and the entire ceremony.
While these songs aren't for everyone, they reflected this couple's taste
and preferences. It also serves as a wonderful demonstration of the power
of a musical style change and original choices.
Classical instrumental still has its place. Recently a Bride chose a lesser
known classical piece for her walk down the aisle. "Variations
on an Original Theme (Enigma Variations) Op. 36″
is a fantastic selection for this. It's a powerful song that uses soaring
strings and majestic horns to slowly build to its peak. The crescendo of the
song timed perfectly with the Bride's appearance.
Recessional
The end of the ceremony recessional is a time for joy and celebration.
You'll walk triumphantly, back up the aisle, for the first time as a married
couple. As you pass by smiling, applauding guests, let the music add an extra
highlight to this moment. Your recessional music should be upbeat and energetic.
Again, choices are plentiful. Past requests include
wedding classical,
ballads, swing and R&B.
Songs by
Vivaldi,
Harry Connick,
James Brown,
U2,
Barry White,
Frank Sinatra,
Stevie Wonder,
James Taylor,
Queen,
Marvin Gaye
and many others have worked to great effect.
Where To Look For Music
We've compiled a list of traditional and not so traditional wedding ceremony
songs. Be sure to share with us something you think we should add to
the list.
If you have a favorite movie soundtrack or radio station, your perfect song
may be something you have already heard. Next time you hear a song that really
grabs you, make a note of it.
One of the best places to find unique musical ideas is right in your own CD
or iPod collection. Chances are there's a favorite song in there you may have
forgotten about that would be perfect. Browse through your music library and
add to your list of possibilities.
Do you have a favorite artist or concert performance? What was that old song
you loved when you were younger?
Is there a brand new song you really like? A newer song can be a refreshing
change from the status quo. And there is less chance anybody else has already
used it for their wedding.
Perhaps there is something in your family heritage you would like to incorporate
musically into the ceremony.
Of course you can search the worlds biggest music libraries
Napster ,
Amazon.com
or
iTunes.com
If you have a special moment in the ceremony for
a candle lighting, rose exchange, remembrance or other tradition, you may
want to choose a song to be played for this as well.
Putting It All Together
Write down all of your musical ideas and then gradually narrow it down to
your three favorites. The others can be played for the Prelude prior to the
beginning of the ceremony, while guests are arriving or later at the reception.
Contrasting music is good and emphasizes an important change in the Processional.
Be dynamic in your choices and create a new sound experience for your guests.
Take the first step in making your wedding day truly yours by choosing songs
that express a bit of who you are. And don't be surprised if your guests compliment
you on how your ceremony was unlike any other they've been to.
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