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Music for Church Weddings


John Maddaford
John Maddaford Updated:
4th of July 2022

Before the Service: For a church wedding, there is a big space to fill with music. Consider organ music, a string quartet or harp, or even a small choir singing.

During the signing of the Register:  If you have access to the church choir they will sing an anthem at this stage. If they have any trebles (boy choristers whose voices have not yet broken) they may be happy to sing a solo such as Aled Jones’ Walking in the Air.

Alternatively, use music from an organ, harp or string quartet as you did at the start of the ceremony.
Music marking the entrance of the Bride should be positive, stately and regal:

  • Wagner: “Bridal Chorus” from Lohengrin (Here comes the Bride)
  • Stanley: Trumpet Voluntary
  • Purcell: Trumpet Tune in D
  • Clarke: Prince of Denmark’s March (Trumpet Voluntary)
  • Mozart: Marriage of Figaro Overture
  • Handel : Arrival of the Queen of Sheba
  • Handel : “The Rejoicing” from Music for the Royal Fireworks
  • Grieg : “Morning” from Peer Gynt

It takes several minutes to sign the register and regain your composure, so allow for plenty of organ music, the choice of which can really personalise the ceremony.

Some couples ask a friend to sing a solo of a tune that is meaningful to you both, but remember that you will not be there to hear it, and if you can track down a treble soloist or soprano singer, this is the time for them to perform.

Don’t be afraid of leaving a moment or two for quiet reflection at this stage, or feel that you need to rush the Signing of the Register to finish before the music does.
As the bridal party exit the music should be triumphant, joyful and celebratory:

  • Mendelssohn: “Wedding March” from a Midsummer Night's Dream
  • Clarke: Prince of Denmark’s March (Trumpet Voluntary)
  • Handel: Water Music; Hornpipe in D
  • Handel: Royal Fireworks; The Rejoycing
  • Purcell: See Nature Rejoicing
  • Mozart : Overture from The Marriage of Figaro
  • Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No 4

When choosing hymns (you will usually need two), opt for better known ones, so everyone can join in.

Boost your guests' singing voices by using the church choir or employing a soloist. If someone is singing with gusto your guests are more likely to join in.
Copyright prevents you from reproducing any music without the copyright holder’s permission until 70 years after the death of the writer. Most traditional hymns fall outside this time frame. The copyright holder’s details will be published with the music, and there is usually a charge of £10 to £25.

At private events, including weddings, you don’t need permission if you are singing the hymns from a hymn book; the law only applies if you are printing the words on an order of service.

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John Maddaford

About the author


John Maddaford

John has been a pivotal member of the Guides for Brides team for 15 years. Over the years he has built relationships with a number of wedding entertainment suppliers including, but not limited to: discos, DJs, live bands, magicians and the totally unique. He is the best person to contact for supplier recommendations in your area.

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