When it comes to weddings, there are certain traditions that are almost universal. One of these traditions is the use of music in the ceremony. From the moment the guests enter the venue to the end of the reception, music sets the tone for the entire event.
But when it comes to the most important moment of the ceremony, the entrance of the bride, there is one song that stands out above all the others: “Here Comes the Bride.”
The History of “Here Comes the Bride”
“Here Comes the Bride” is the traditional processional song played as the bride walks down the aisle. The song, also known as “Bridal Chorus,” was composed by Richard Wagner in 1850 as part of his opera “Lohengrin.”
The melody of the song has been used in weddings for over 150 years, but it wasn’t until the late 1800s that it became the go-to song for brides making their entrance. The tradition appears to have started in the United States, where it was popularized by a music publisher named William Henry Sherwood.
Although “Here Comes the Bride” has been a standard at weddings around the world for over a century, its origins as part of an opera have caused controversy in recent years. Some have criticized the song for being associated with anti-Semitic themes present in the opera “Lohengrin.”
Alternatives to “Here Comes the Bride”
In recent years, there has been a push to move away from traditional wedding music in favor of more modern and personal choices. While “Here Comes the Bride” remains a popular choice, many couples are choosing to walk down the aisle to a different song that has personal significance to them.
Some popular alternatives include:
– “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
– “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
– “Marry Me” by Train
– “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
The Importance of Wedding Music
While the choice of music at a wedding is a personal one, it is important to consider the emotional impact that music can have on the ceremony and reception. The right song can set the tone for the entire event and create a lasting memory.
Whether you choose to stick with tradition and walk down the aisle to “Here Comes the Bride” or opt for a more modern song that holds personal meaning, the music you choose is a reflection of your relationship and can add to the magic of your special day.
Conclusion
“Here Comes the Bride” has been the quintessential wedding processional song for over a century. Although its origins in an opera have caused controversy, it remains a beloved tradition for many couples. However, there are many alternatives that can make the ceremony more personal and meaningful. Ultimately, the choice of music at a wedding is a personal one that should reflect the couple’s love and their unique relationship.
FAQ
What is the name of the wedding song Here Comes The Bride?
The name of the wedding song that is commonly referred to as “Here Comes The Bride” is actually “Bridal Chorus.” The piece was composed by German composer Richard Wagner in 1850 for his opera, Lohengrin. The Bridal Chorus has been a staple of weddings for over a century, and is often played as the bride begins her walk down the aisle.
Despite its popularity, the Bridal Chorus has a mixed history due to its connection with the controversial operatic work by Wagner. Many people now choose to forgo the traditional wedding march in favor of more contemporary or unique options. However, the Bridal Chorus remains an enduring classic and its use is still widespread.
It is important to note that the Bridal Chorus and the Wedding March are not the same thing. The Wedding March is a piece by Felix Mendelssohn, which is often played after the ceremony as the newlyweds exit the church or venue. While the Wedding March is also a popular choice for weddings, it does not have the same association with the bride’s entrance as the Bridal Chorus.
The traditional wedding song that is known as “Here Comes The Bride” is actually called the Bridal Chorus, composed by Richard Wagner for his opera Lohengrin. Although its history may be controversial, the Bridal Chorus remains a popular choice for weddings to this day.
What is the song called when the bride and groom leave?
The song played when the bride and groom leave, also known as the wedding recessional song, is a crucial element of any wedding ceremony. Traditionally, the recessional song is played after the bride and groom exchange their wedding bands and are pronounced as husband and wife. It marks the end of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of the celebrations.
The choice of recessional song ultimately depends on the couple’s musical tastes and the overall theme of the wedding. Some popular options include classical pieces like Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” or Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” Other couples opt for more contemporary songs, such as “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake or “Marry You” by Bruno Mars.
It’s important to choose a song that reflects the joy and excitement of the occasion. Happier, upbeat songs tend to be a better fit for the recessional, as opposed to slow, sentimental ballads. Additionally, the length of the song should be considered; typically, a wedding recessional lasts between 3-5 minutes.
The choice of wedding recessional song is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. The key is to choose a song that resonates with the couple and their guests, and makes for a memorable moment as the newlyweds exit the ceremony.
Does the bride walk to a different song?
The wedding ceremony is one of the most important events in a person’s life and the music selection can contribute a lot to making the day memorable. One typical question that often pops up is whether the bride walks to a different song than the rest of the bridal party.
Traditionally, wedding music commences with a song played as the bridesmaids and groomsmen make their entrance. This can be followed by a different song for the bride’s grand entrance. The reasoning behind the different song choice is that it adds a certain pomp and grandeur to the bride’s entrance, highlighting her arrival as the special guest of honour. This tradition has been followed for generations and has become an integral part of many couples’ wedding celebrations.
However, it should be noted that there is no hard and fast rule regarding the use of separate wedding ceremony songs for the bridal party. Some couples prefer to have an all-encompassing piece of music played for the entire wedding party’s entrance, while others like to have a different song choice for each party member. It all comes down to personal preference and what feels right for the couple.
When it comes to wedding music selection, there is no right or wrong answer. The most important aspect is that the music choice reflects the couple’s personality and complements the overall tone of the ceremony. Whether the bride walks to the same song as the rest of the bridal party or to a different one, the music should add to the magic of the moment and enhance the meaningfulness of the occasion.
