Wedding Music : Set the Tone of Your Wedding with Music

Planning a wedding is a major undertaking for a couple just starting out. Realistically, you may never again have to make so many seemingly momentous decisions together in such a short span of time. The choices are endless, and expensive, but one of the biggest you'll make is choosing what kind of music you will have ht your ceremony and reception.

Whether you've dreamed of walking down the aisle to the traditional "Here comes the bride," another classical music piece, or your favorite Beatles tune, music is a wonderful way to personalize your ceremony and turn it into something truly memorable.

"If the church or ceremony site you have chosen has a music director, schedule an appointment to discuss your ideas. You might need to use in-house performers, (i.e. soloists who sing at that particular church each week), but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. They know the site's acoustics and can probably suggest some good selections. If you have the option of bringing musicians in, the your options vary from a single vocalist to a string quartet or even a brass band.

If you are marrying outdoors, you probably should make sure your musicians are sheltered in case of inclement weather. Instruments are delicate and cannot be played even in just the slightest of drizzling rains. Make sure you have access to a tent or awning if a gazebo is not located on the premises.

Most wedding ceremonies, civil or religious, call for music in at least three places: before the wedding (the prelude), during the processional, and during the recessional.

The prelude is intended to entertain guests as they enter, are seated, and wait until the ceremony begins. It also establishes the mood: A solo flautist, violinist or pianist is a low-key choice. And they should be able to play anything from a Bach concerto to your favorite top-forty love song.

Processional music plays as you and your wedding party make your grand entrance. The traditional wedding march can be played or you could use Purcesll's "Trumpet Tune," Vivaldi's "Spring" from "The Four Seasons," or Pachelbel's "Canon in D Minor."