When it comes to weddings, there are a few things people expect: a beautiful bride in a white dress, an exchange of vows, and of course, the quintessential wedding song. But what is that song called? You know the one – the tune that gets stuck in your head and makes you want to dance the night away. Well, wonder no more, for we have the answer. The stereotypical wedding song is known as the Bridal Chorus or Here Comes The Bride, composed by Richard Wagner.
The History of the Bridal Chorus
Wagner’s Bridal Chorus is perhaps the most recognizable piece of music used in wedding ceremonies. It was first introduced in 1850 as part of the opera “Lohengrin” and was initially used as an entrance march for the bride and was intended to be part of a larger musical work.
Wagner originally wrote the Bridal Chorus as a powerful symphonic piece, but it was ultimately the simplicity of the melody and its association with weddings that led to its popularity as a standalone piece of music. Today, it is a beloved standard that can be heard at almost any Western-style wedding.
How the Bridal Chorus is Used Today
The Bridal Chorus is typically played by an organist as the bride walks down the aisle, and it is used in many different cultures throughout the world. It has become such a ubiquitous part of weddings that it is almost expected to be heard at some point during the ceremony. However, there is also a fair amount of criticism surrounding the use of the Bridal Chorus for a variety of reasons.
Some people view the Bridal Chorus as a symbol of outdated and sexist traditions, stemming from the original opera performance where the bride was given away by her father as property. Others feel that the song is overplayed and that it has become too cliché to be used in modern weddings.
Alternatives to the Bridal Chorus
For those looking to include music in their weddings but wanting to avoid the Bridal Chorus, there are plenty of alternatives available. Here are a few popular options:
1. Canon in D, Pachelbel. This classical piece is often used as the entrance music for the bride and can be played on a variety of instruments.
2. A Thousand Years, Christina Perri. This modern ballad has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and can add a contemporary touch to the ceremony.
3. Trumpet Voluntary, Jeremiah Clarke. This stately piece of music is often used as the exit music for the newlywed couple and can be played on a variety of instruments.
Conclusion
Despite its status as a classic wedding song, the Bridal Chorus is not without its detractors. However, for many couples, it remains an important and beloved part of their wedding ceremonies. Whether you choose to stick with the traditional options or opt for something more modern, the music played during a wedding can truly help set the tone for the entire event. Whatever you choose, just be sure to pick a song that speaks to you and your partner and helps make your special day even more memorable.
FAQ
What are songs sung during wedding called?
Weddings are an occasion of joy and celebration. They are a day that marks the beginning of a new journey for the couple in love. To make the event special, there are many traditions and rituals associated with wedding ceremonies. One of the most important aspects of a wedding is the music that is played during the ceremony. The songs sung during weddings are an integral part of the wedding ceremony, and they help set the tone for the entire event.
The songs sung during a wedding ceremony are typically called processional songs or wedding music. The processional song is the wedding ceremony music that is played while the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, etc.) is walking down the aisle. The music is usually instrumental, but it can also have lyrics if the couple so desires.
There are many different types of processional songs that can be played during a wedding. Some couples choose traditional wedding music like “Canon in D,” while others may prefer more modern songs like “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri. The choice of processional song is entirely up to the couple getting married.
In addition to the processional song, there are many other songs that can be played during a wedding ceremony. These songs can include hymns, love songs, and other special requests that the couple may have. Generally, the type of music played during the wedding ceremony will depend on the couple’s preferences and the type of wedding ceremony they are having.
The songs sung during a wedding ceremony are an important aspect of the day. They help set the tone and create a memorable experience for everyone in attendance. Whether the couple chooses traditional wedding music or modern love songs, the music played during a wedding ceremony is an essential element that should be carefully planned and chosen.
What is the song called when the bride and groom leave?
The wedding recessional music, which is also known as the wedding exit music, is a significant part of the wedding ceremony. It plays at the end of the ceremony when the official pronounces the newlyweds as married, and the couple walks back down the aisle as a newly-married couple. The recessional song is the final touch to the ceremony, and it helps to create a happy, upbeat, and celebratory atmosphere.
The recessional songs are typically happy, lively, and bursting with love, reflecting the joy that both the bride and groom are feeling on their special day. The music should be uplifting and exciting as it sets the tone for the reception. The wedding exit song can be of any genre – from classical to contemporary, jazz to pop – and should be meaningful and memorable.
Some popular wedding recessional songs include “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder, “You Make My Dreams” by Hall and Oates, “Beautiful Day” by U2, “Love on Top” by Beyonce, “Forever” by Chris Brown, “Marry You” by Bruno Mars, among others. These songs are perfect for creating a celebratory and joyous atmosphere, and they are also great for making a memorable exit.
The song played during the wedding reception exit is known as the wedding recessional song. It is a significant part of the wedding ceremony that helps to create a happy, celebratory atmosphere. The perfect wedding recessional song should be uplifting, exciting, meaningful, and memorable, as it marks the beginning of the newlyweds’ life together.
What song should bride walk down aisle to?
Choosing the perfect song to walk down the aisle to can be a challenging task, as it sets the tone for the entire wedding ceremony. The music you choose should be meaningful, memorable, and reflect the couple’s love story. There are several factors to consider when picking a song for the bride’s entrance, such as the ceremony’s location, the couple’s personalities, their culture and traditions, and the theme of the wedding.
The most popular choice for a bride’s entrance song is undoubtedly “Here Comes the Bride” or “Bridal Chorus” by Wagner. However, many modern couples prefer to break from tradition and choose a more unique and personal song that resonates with them. There is an endless variety of songs that you can choose from, depending on your preferences and the type of wedding you are planning.
Classical music, like “Canon in D” by Pachelbel or “Ave Maria” by Schubert, adds elegance and sophistication to any wedding ceremony. Meanwhile, romantic ballads such as “At Last” by Etta James, “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra, or “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers, are perfect for couples who want a more intimate and emotional feel.
For a more upbeat and modern wedding, you might opt for pop songs such as “Marry You” by Bruno Mars, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, “All of Me” by John Legend, or “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith. These contemporary tunes add a fun and playful vibe to the wedding procession.
If you want to incorporate some country flavor into your wedding ceremony, you could choose songs such as “Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts, “Amazed” by Lonestar, or “From This Moment On” by Shania Twain.
Regardless of the type of song you choose, make sure it reflects your personality and love story. Entrusting the perfect song for the most memorable walk of your life may be challenging, but with a little research and a lot of soul-searching, you’ll find the perfect tune that will make your procession a moment to cherish forever.
Is Clair de Lune a wedding song?
Claude Debussy’s “Clair de Lune” is considered as one of the most enchanting and captivating pieces in the world of classical music. Its soft and soothing melody has made it popular among lovers, poets, and romantics. The simple yet elegant arrangement makes this piece a favorite for many special occasions, including weddings. But the question remains, is “Clair de Lune” a wedding song?
The answer is yes, “Clair de Lune” is an excellent choice for a wedding song. The piece is often played during the wedding ceremony as a prelude or processional song for the bridal party. Couples who want to add a touch of elegance, sophistication, and romance to their wedding ceremonies can consider selecting this piece as a part of their music program.
The gentle and calming melody of “Clair de Lune” sets a perfect atmosphere for a wedding ceremony. It enhances the celebratory mood and creates a warm and welcoming feeling amongst the wedding guests. At the same time, the slow tempo and evolving sound of the piece provide a moment of tranquility, which can be appreciated by the couple and their guests before the vows are exchanged.
Moreover, the popularity of “Clair de Lune” makes it easily recognizable to the guests, and its calming tones complement the emotions and feelings of the occasion. The piece’s perfect harmony and melody provide a soothing background that can help the guests relax and focus on the ceremony.
“Clair de Lune” is an exceptional choice for a wedding song. Its classical, timeless, and romantic nature make it the perfect accompaniment for a celebration of love and commitment. The piece’s beauty and sophistication will provide a delicate and elegant musical background to the wedding ceremony that will leave a lasting impression on the couple and their guests.