The Perfect Soundtrack: How to Choose the Right Ceremony Music for Your Wedding Day
Music sets the stage for one of the most important moments of your life—your wedding ceremony. From the first notes of the processional to the final moments before you walk back down the aisle together, the right music helps create an emotional and unforgettable experience. But how do you choose the perfect songs for each moment of your ceremony? Here are three essential tips to help you get started, featuring Emma Kate Tobia’s recommended song list to guide you.
1. Choose Music That Reflects Your Love Story
Your ceremony is about you and your partner, so let the music reflect your unique love story. Whether it’s a meaningful classical piece or a song that’s been special to you both from the beginning, make sure it’s personal. Consider selecting songs that bring back memories or lyrics that speak to your journey together. Emma Kate Tobia’s list offers a variety of choices to suit every couple’s story.
2. Match the Tone of Each Moment
Your ceremony has several key moments, and each should have its own musical atmosphere. For the processional, choose a song that feels timeless and romantic—something that builds excitement as you make your entrance. For signing the marriage license, opt for a softer, more reflective piece. And for the recessional, select a joyful, celebratory tune that marks your first steps as a married couple. Emma Kate Tobia’s recommendations cover all these special moments, helping you set the right mood for each.
3. Think About the Acoustics
The type of venue will affect how your music sounds, so it’s important to consider acoustics when choosing your ceremony songs. A large church might suit a grand, sweeping piece, while an intimate outdoor setting may call for something more gentle and acoustic. Be sure to work with your musicians to understand what will sound best in your chosen venue. Emma Kate Tobia’s list includes options that can be adapted to different settings, ensuring your music is as beautiful as your surroundings.
By following these tips, you’ll create the perfect soundtrack for your ceremony—one that makes every moment feel magical. Ready to find the perfect songs? Here are a few of my favourite pieces:
✨ Classical Operatic Pieces:
The Lord Bless You and Keep You – John Rutter
Ave Maria – Schubert, Bach/Gounod, Caccini
Panis Angelicus – Franck (Communion hymn)
Pie Jesu – Andrew Lloyd Webber (with ‘Pacem’ instead of ‘Requiem’)
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – J.S. Bach
Ombra Mai Fu – Handel
✨ Non-Liturgical Songs:
The Prayer
You Raise Me Up
What a Wonderful World
Perfect Day – Lou Reed
Over the Rainbow
✨ Traditional Catholic Hymns:
Bread of Life, Hope of the World – Bernadette Farrell
I Am the Bread of Life
Amazing Grace
Ave Maria – As I Kneel Before You
Christ Be Our Light
Shepherd Me, O God – Marty Haugen
✨ Responsorial Psalms:
Psalm 33 (32): The Earth Is Full of the Goodness of the Lord
Psalm 103 (102): The Lord Is Kind and Merciful
Psalm 148: Let All Praise the Name of the Lord
