When it comes to finding the right music for your wedding ceremony, many styles and options may come to mind. It just so happens that we specialize in a genre that has stood the test of time: classical music. It’s most often the sound that one hears when they think of a bride walking down the aisle, and for good reason — many have been popular wedding songs for decades, if not centuries.
Here, we highlight a few favorites among not only couples, but the musicians that perform them. From Pachelbel’s Canon in D to Brandenburg concerto, these popular processional and recessional songs may prove to be perfect matches for your big day, too.
Pachelbel Canon in D
Likely dating back to the late 17th century, Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel is a common traditional music selection to open wedding ceremonies. It had a resurgence in popularity in the 1960s and has been a classic processional piece ever since, played in a variety of instrumentations. This piece is serene and builds gradually — a lovely tune for the bridal party to enter the ceremony.
Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring
Johann Sebastian Bach composed Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring in 1723. Since then, it has also become a favorite processional song for weddings. Meditative and flexible in tempo, this piece can serve to seat parents or accompany the entry of the bridal party, as well.
Ode to Joy
Familiar and jubilant, Ode to Joy by Ludwig van Beethoven dates back to 1824 and marks the final (fourth) movement of his Ninth Symphony. Its stately sound makes for a celebrational recessional hymn that remains popular in wedding ceremonies to this day.
Brandenburg Concerto
Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos may originate in the Baroque era, but they can still be heard in weddings worldwide — especially as a recessional song. The orchestral composition of No. 3 – Allegro Moderato sounds most conventional when played in the wedding setting by a string quartet. There’s no way more refined to exit the wedding ceremony!
Hire Classical Wedding Musicians
Know what wedding music you’d like for your big day, or need some help deciding? Either way, we’re here to help you lay it all out and love how it sounds. Contact us today with questions or to book your wedding music How & When to Book Wedding Music!