Weddings are one of the most important events in people’s lives. Every couple wants their wedding day to be perfect and memorable. From the dress and the venue, to the music and the flowers, everything needs to be just right. One of the most iconic moments of a wedding is the bride’s entrance, and the music that accompanies it. The most common piece of music played during this moment is the wedding march. But what instrument plays the wedding march?
A brief history of the wedding march
The wedding march is a traditional piece of music that has been played at weddings for centuries. The most famous version of the wedding march was written by Felix Mendelssohn in 1842, for his suite of incidental music to Shakespeare’s play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”.
Mendelssohn’s wedding march became popular in the United States when it was played at the wedding of Victoria, Princess Royal, to Prince Frederick William of Prussia in 1858. Since then, it has been a staple at weddings all over the world, and is instantly recognizable.
What instrument plays the wedding march?
The wedding march is most commonly played on a church pipe organ. The pipe organ has been used in religious services for centuries, and its powerful sound is perfect for the grand entrance of the bride.
The wedding march can also be played on a piano or a harp. The piano is a popular choice for indoor weddings, while the harp is often used for outdoor ceremonies. Both instruments have a beautiful, romantic sound that is perfect for a wedding.
In addition to these traditional instruments, the wedding march can be played on a variety of other instruments, such as the violin, the guitar, and even the bagpipes. Each instrument brings a unique sound to the piece, and can be tailored to suit the couple’s preferences or the style of the wedding.
Other pieces of music used at weddings
While the wedding march is the most famous piece of music used at weddings, there are many other pieces that are commonly played during the ceremony and reception. Here are just a few examples:
Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel
Canon in D is another iconic piece of music that is often played during the procession or recession. This beautiful, romantic piece was written by Johann Pachelbel in the 17th century, and has been a popular choice for weddings ever since.
Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles
For couples who prefer a more modern sound, Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles is a popular choice. This upbeat, cheerful song is perfect for a summer wedding, and will have guests tapping their feet and singing along.
At Last by Etta James
At Last is a classic R&B ballad that has been a favorite at weddings for decades. This soulful, romantic song is perfect for the first dance, and will make guests feel like they’re part of a fairy tale.
Conclusion
The wedding march is an iconic piece of music that is played at weddings all over the world. While it is most commonly played on a pipe organ, it can be tailored to suit the couple’s preferences or the style of the wedding. Whether it’s a traditional church ceremony or a modern beach wedding, the music is an important part of the day, and helps to create a memorable atmosphere that the couple and their guests will never forget.
FAQ
What is the traditional wedding music called?
Wedding music has been an important part of wedding ceremonies for centuries. It sets the tone for the ceremony and creates a special atmosphere for the bride, groom, and guests. One of the most recognizable and traditional pieces of wedding music is “Here Comes the Bride.”
“Here Comes the Bride,” also known as “Wedding March,” is a classic piece of music that has been played at countless weddings. It is a processional piece that accompanies the bride as she walks down the aisle. The music was originally composed by Richard Wagner in 1850 as part of his opera “Lohengrin,” and was later adapted for use in weddings.
The song has become a staple in wedding ceremonies around the world. It is played on a variety of instruments, including the organ, piano, and strings. The lyrics are often associated with the song, with the opening line being “Here comes the bride, all dressed in white.”
While “Here Comes the Bride” is the most well-known traditional wedding music, there are many other pieces that are also popular. The “Wedding March” by Felix Mendelssohn is another processional piece that is often used. This piece is played as the bride exits the ceremony with her groom after they have exchanged vows. Other pieces of traditional wedding music include “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel, which is often used for the bridal processional, and “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert, which is typically played during the ceremony.
Traditional wedding music has played a significant role in wedding ceremonies for centuries and continues to be an important part of modern weddings. “Here Comes the Bride” is just one example of the many beautiful and timeless pieces that can make a wedding day even more special and memorable.
What is the song called when the bride and groom leave?
The song that is played when the bride and groom leave their wedding ceremony is known as the wedding recessional song or the wedding exit song. This moment marks the celebration of the newly married couple taking their first steps down the aisle together. It is a beautiful and symbolic moment that requires perfect music to convey the joy and happiness present in the atmosphere.
Choosing the perfect wedding recessional song can be a tough task, considering that it has to sound happy, celebratory and must be bursting with love. It should also reflect the excitement and ecstasy that the couple is feeling as they take their first steps as newlyweds. Wedding exit songs not only represent the couple, but also the mood of the guests, who are cheering and clapping wildly while the newlyweds walk past them.
There are a wide variety of wedding recessional songs available, each with a unique rhythm, melody, and lyrics. Some of the most popular choices include upbeat songs such as “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz, “Marry You” by Bruno Mars, and “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole. These songs have a joyful vibe, making them perfect for the exit of the bride and groom.
Other popular choices for wedding exit songs include slower and more romantic tracks such as “At Last” by Etta James, “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers, and “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley. These songs still represent the same joy and happiness of the occasion, but with lyrics that portray a more romantic sentiment.
Couples can also choose to go with a more modern approach and select current pop songs such as “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran or “Love on Top” by Beyonce for their wedding recessional. These songs still offer the same cheerful and celebratory vibe but in a more modern context.
Wedding recessional songs or wedding exit songs are an essential part of the post-ceremony celebrations as they represent the first steps of the newlyweds together. They help to convey the jubilant atmosphere that surrounds the occasion and truly make the day unforgettable. With a wide range of options, couples can pick the perfect tune that best represents them as a couple and their love for one another.
What is pre ceremony music called?
Pre ceremony music, also known as prelude music, is a type of music played before the start of a wedding ceremony. Often played about 30 minutes before the official start time, it is intended to set the mood and create a meaningful ambiance for guests. This particular type of music is typically mellow and calming, designed to invite contemplation and appreciation for the upcoming union between two people.
Prelude music can be played in a number of ways, including via a speaker system, by a band or orchestra, or by a string quartet. Each of these methods offers a distinct tone and style to the music, allowing you to choose exactly how you want the soundtrack for your ceremony to sound. Whether it’s classical, jazz, country, or another type of music, the prelude can create an environment that reflects the taste and style of the couple getting married.
The choice to include pre ceremony music is entirely optional, but it can add an extra layer of sophistication and elegance to your wedding ceremony. It can also help to ease anxiety and nerves for both the couple and guests, by providing a calming and soothing environment before the more formal aspects of the ceremony begin. The prelude music can be just as essential as other traditional elements of the wedding ceremony, such as the processional and recessional music.
Pre ceremony music is the calming and contemplative music that is played before the start of a wedding ceremony. It is known as prelude music, and it can add an extra layer of elegance and sophistication to your big day. Whether you choose to include it or not, the right prelude music can create a meaningful ambiance for guests and help to ease anxiety and nerves for the couple getting married.