Music for a Christian Wedding
Order of Service
Musical Suggestions
Prelude
The Prelude is the moment preceding the ceremony. Guests arrive to the church while ambiance music is played. The Prelude usually last from 15 to 20 minutes.
Popular prelude pieces
Processional
The Bride walks down the aisle to the altar where the Groom and Groom's men are waiting. The entrance of the Bride may be preceeded by the entrance of the Bridal Party.
Popular processional pieces
Greetings
Once the Bride arrives at the altar, the officiant will greet the couple and the assembly. He will usually say some words about marriage and then proceed to present the Groom and the Bride, explaining their respective role as husband and wife.
Liturgy of the Word
Here there will be readings from scripture followed by the sermon from the officiant. Music usually doesn't play an important part in the Liturgy of the Word.
Celebration of Matrimony
The moment when the couple are actually getting married. This section of the wedding includes the vows, the exchange of rings, the pronouncement of marriage and finally the kiss.
The celebration of Matrimony is usually followed by the Pastoral Prayer and the Lord's Prayer.
Communion (optional)
There may be a communion during the wedding. If it is the case, this is a good place for music as it will take some time for the whole assembly to receive communion.
Popular communion pieces
Signature of the License
The Bride, Groom, maid of honor, best man and officiant sign the marriage license, making the marriage legally official. This is a perfect place for joyful or romantic music to be played.
Once the license is signed, the officiant will bless the assembly and say the final words.
Popular pieces for the signature of the license
Recessional
The Bride and the Groom walk together down the aisle. This is the moment for celebratory music!
