Weddings
Music for the Ceremony
In a typical Catholic Wedding Ceremony you need music in the following places:
Prelude – This is music played/sung prior to the ceremony’s start. Seating of Grandparents & Parents are included in the “Prelude.”
Processional – This includes the Bridal Party AND the Bride’s Entrance. Some choose one song for both the Bridal Party and the Bride, some Bride’s prefer to have separate music for their entrance – both work beautifully!
Responsorial Psalm & Gospel Acclamation – The Psalm can also be recited, but is more commonly sung (this is the scripture between the 1st and 2nd readings). The Gospel Acclamation is the “Alleluia” before the Gospel, that is always sung – you also can pick a verse to be sung between the “Alleluia” refrains.
Unity Candle/Sand Ceremony/Preparation of Gifts- If you are having a full mass this leads into the Preparation of Gifts so the song usually is required to be about God/the Eucharist/the Sacrament that just took place. If you have a not-so-strict priest you may be able to get away with him approving a secular song. Many priests, at least in the Diocese of Sioux City are doing away with the Unity Candle Ceremony due to the fact that it is not liturgically appropriate!
Mass Parts – Holy Holy Holy, Memorial Acclamation, Amen, and Lamb of God – we would probably go with the mass setting that is common to your church. If you do not know, there are several to choose from, you can just choose what you like best!
Communion – If you are having a full Mass, there will be communion. Generally, only one song is needed, two if you have a larger wedding.
Recessional – The music to which you walk out as a newly married couple! Pick something upbeat and fun!
See the Instrumental Repertoire and Vocal Repertoire pages for song ideas.
Wedding Inquiries
Interested in hiring me to provide music at your wedding? Submit your request here. Then head over to my Wedding page to begin planning!