Wedding Music

The unity candle can be another powerful symbol of the couple becoming 'one". Over half of the weddings use this tradition. The outer candles of the unity candle are often lit by the mothers just before they are seated at the beginning of the ceremony. While the bridal couple lights the center candle and blows out the outer candles, instrumental or vocal music can take place. If you would like something very short that just takes the time of lighting the candle, then it would be best to choose instrumental music since they can just play an excerpt of piece. You can also use it as another opportunity for a vocal selection or a full-length instrumental piece.

The benediction is usually spoken at the close of the ceremony and just before the introduction of the couple. Another meaningful and wonderful way to close the ceremony is to have an appropriate piece of music played or sung such as "The Prayer" by Sager/Foster (solo or duet) or "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" if you have a choir or small ensemble. I played for a couple Dutch weddings and each of them had the congregation sing The Doxology (Old 100th tune) or "Praise God from whom all Blessings Flow" as the benediction. That was a meaningful touch to these weddings. The spoken benediction can still be said after the music but just the "right" piece can add so much to this time of the ceremony that spoken words alone cannot reach.

The recessional is a symbol and another reminder that the newly married couple is now "one" as they exit down the aisle together. After the spoken benediction or the introduction of Mr and Mrs. _________, the newlyweds are often met with a round of applause as they begin their new life together. At this time, it is appropriate to have a joyous, upbeat piece that joins in on the celebration.

Oftentimes, another piece is needed after the recessional as the congregation is being dismissed, especially if they are dismissed row by row. This piece can be in the same style as the recessional. You can let the musicians choose this piece or you can use this time to include a piece that you especially like that did not fit anywhere else in the ceremony.