Wedding Ceremony Songs

For the processional of the wedding party, Bach’s "Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” or Pachelbel’s "Canon in D" are both excellent choices. These songs are traditionally used in this role because their steady, driving notes make for steady steps toward the altar. Other choices include Brahm’s "Cello Sonata in E Minor" and Tchaikovsky’s "Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet."

Music that is popular for the actual ceremony are those songs that have had lyrics written for them. This includes the lovely "Ave Maria," which is perfect for a flute solo, and is sure to move your guests to tears. For other non-instrumental options, consider "I Will Be Here," "Sunrise, Sunset,"” or Unforgettable."

The soaring, ecstatic notes of Mendelssohn’s "Wedding March" make it perfect for a climactic recessional. The "Hallelujah Chorus" is also great for this task, as it sounds celebratory and exciting, and makes everyone want to stand to his or her feet.

Most of these songs can be found on instrumental wedding cd’s sold at your local music store. They also are popular enough that you should be able to request that your musicians play them, and not have the problem with the performers not knowing the songs.

Other good songs include Tchaikovsky’s "Waltz of the Flowers" or "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies (although be careful because that second one is often associated with Christmas), and Beethoven’s "Ode to Joy” or "Moonlight Sonata."

Your guests will immediately recognize these as beautiful, traditional wedding songs, perhaps even as songs that were played at their own weddings.