Discover how classical music, from Pachelbel to modern string quartets, adds timeless elegance and emotional depth to wedding ceremonies.
Classical music brings elegance, artistry, and emotional depth to wedding ceremonies and receptions. The timeless melodies and harmonies of the classical genre set the mood for a refined and romantic celebration of marriage. From the processional wedding march to the recessional exit, classical pieces add meaning and beauty to every wedding moment.
Classical Music Sets the Mood for a Refined Wedding Ceremony
Classical wedding professionals have a rich history and tradition behind them. Canon in D by Pachelbel is one of the most popular pieces for wedding marches. Its gentle harpsichord and violin melody create a bright, uplifting atmosphere. Other classical wedding marches like Mendelssohn’s Wedding March capture the grand romantic spirit through strong crescendos and dynamic harmonies. The soaring instrumentation allows guests to truly feel the significance of the bride’s processional walk down the aisle.
String quartet or piano renditions of these classical wedding songs carry the same emotional weight while lending an intimate elegance. The sweet and relatively quiet nature allows the music to accent the ceremony without overpowering the couple’s vows. Classical wedding music sets a refined mood for couples looking to honor tradition with meaningful, moving pieces.
History Behind the Most Popular Classical Wedding Songs
Understanding the history and significance behind the most popular classical wedding songs allows couples to make more informed music selections:
Pachelbel’s Canon in D – Composed circa 1680, this iconic Baroque piece with its repetitive harpsichord and violin phrases epitomizes grace and elegance. It keeps a bright, steady tempo perfect for professionals.
Mendelssohn’s Wedding March – German composer Felix Mendelssohn wrote this stirring wedding march in 1842 as part of his incidental music for the Shakespeare play A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It captures all the romance and grandeur of marriage.
Bach’s Air on the G String – While not originally written as a wedding piece, Bach’s 1720 composition for violin and orchestra radiates tenderness and beauty fitting for wedding ceremonies.
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons – Antonio Vivaldi published his most famous violin concertos The Four Seasons in 1725. The lyrical Spring concerto depicts renewal and joy perfect for weddings.
Clarke’s Prince of Denmark’s March – This Baroque trumpet volunteer from Jeremiah Clarke written circa 1700 makes a triumphant, bubbly recessional piece. The bold brass uplifts guests as newlyweds exit.
Tailor the Ceremony Music to Your Taste
While Pachelbel’s Canon in D has remained a wedding classic for decades, many contemporary classical songs also make for beautiful ceremony music. The Vitamin String Quartet produces classical covers of modern pop and rock songs for a modern take on the traditional wedding sound. Their version of A Thousand Years by Christina Perri is a recent popular pick for professionals.
Couples can also opt for lighthearted recessional pieces like Clarke’s Prince of Denmark’s March or Toccata from Symphony No.5 by Widor. The bubbly, upbeat tempo from these classical orchestra pieces pronounces the new couple’s grand exit. Brides and grooms should select classical ceremony music that matches their personality as a couple.
When choosing ceremony music, it’s also important to follow proper wedding etiquette. Classical songs with religious references work best for wedding venues like churches. Secular classical music allows for more flexibility. Meeting with your wedding planner or officiant can help determine appropriate classical ceremony songs.
Modern Classical Covers for Ceremonies
In addition to the traditional ceremony classics, contemporary classical covers breathe new life into modern pop songs:
A Thousand Years by Christina Perri – The popular love ballad sounds gorgeous when played by a string quartet or solo violin. The emotional lyrics shine through.
All of Me by John Legend – Vitamin String Quartet’s violin rendition turns this romantic modern hit into a touching processional or first dance song.
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran – The Piano Guys’ take on Sheeran’s hit uses cello and piano to deliver a slower, classical twist perfect for weddings.
Perfect by Ed Sheeran – Another romantic ballad that sounds beautiful when stripped down to piano and strings without the loss of emotive lyrics.
At Last by Etta James – Sonya Belousova’s violin cover of this classic love song adds sweetness while retaining the joyful lyrics.
Classical Music Options for the Wedding Party Entrance
The wedding party entrance offers another opportunity to showcase beautiful classical songs. Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba is a popular energetic piece for announcing bridesmaids and groomsmen. Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 has a similar regal, baroque sound suitable for wedding parties.
For a more contemporary option, Escala’s rendition of Palladio Allegretto adds modern strings and a climatic crescendo to usher in attendants with flair. Using classical music for the wedding party entrance distinguishes the moment with sophistication.
Choreographing the entrance to complement the song’s pacing and story can further elevate the moment. Having attendants walk in pairs at key swells or pauses in the music ties everything together beautifully. Selecting the right classical wedding music option and entrance strategy makes an impactful first impression.
Top Classical Genres for Wedding Party Entrances
Baroque – The rhythmic, orderly nature of Baroque classical music allows wedding planners to easily time the processional entrance. Examples: Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3: Air, Handel’s Water Music.
Classical – Sweeping symphonies in this period capture grandeur. Attendants can walk to bold crescendos. Examples: Mozart’s Eine kleine Nachtmusik, Mouret’s Rondeau.
Modern Orchestral – Contemporary symphonic groups add drama through soaring strings and percussion. Examples: Audiomachine’s Guardians at the Gate, and Future World Music’s Triumphant Return.
Choreographing Entrances to Classical Music
Match Walking Pace – Time attendant pairs to start walking at key phrases in the song to sync movement with musical peaks.
Build Drama – Have the maid of honor and best man enter last at the climax of the song for maximum impact.
Incorporate Pauses – Strategic pauses in attendant entrances enable the music to shine.
Fit Song Length – Edit longer classical songs to fit the exact entrance duration.
Top Classical Genres for Weddings
Beyond ceremony and reception staples, exploring different eras of classical music can provide fresh wedding options.
Baroque Music
The Baroque period of classical music originated in the 1600s. It often has a bright, orderly mood. Harpsichord and strings create light textures suitable for uplifting processionals or recessional wedding songs. Canon in D typifies the Baroque sound.
In addition to Pachelbel, other prominent Baroque composers popular for weddings include:
Johann Sebastian Bach – This virtuosic organist and composer created over 1000 works in his lifetime (1685-1750). Orchestral suites like the famous Air on a G String shine with violin.
George Frideric Handel – Handel was a prolific Baroque composer, with famous works like Messiah and Water Music. The horns and strings have regal flair.
Antonio Vivaldi – Known as the “Red Priest”, Vivaldi wrote hundreds of Baroque violin concertos full of rhythmic drive and joy, like The Four Seasons.
Henry Purcell – This English Baroque composer incorporated Italian and French influences into orchestral works, theater, and opera. Professionals like Trumpet Tune are bright.
Classical Era Music
The Classical period spans the late 1700s into the early 1800s. Piano and symphonic pieces from great composers like Mozart or Beethoven capture all the drama and romance of weddings. Popular examples include Symphony No. 9 and Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.
Beyond those famous composers, other Classical-era options include:
Franz Schubert – Schubert composed piano pieces, chamber music, symphonies, and the famous “Trout” Quintet. His lyrical style fits emotional moments.
Johann Strauss II – This Austrian composer famous for waltzes and polkas brings a light, dancing energy with pieces like The Blue Danube Waltz.
Ludwig van Beethoven – Beethoven bridged the Classical and Romantic eras. His piano sonatas and sweeping symphonies convey incredible passion.
Franz Joseph Haydn – Haydn composed over 100 symphonies with charm and wit. Pieces often start quietly before building to grand endings fitting for weddings.
Opera Arias
Operatic wedding music introduces captivating vocals and grand emotional ballads. Pieces like Bach/Gounod’s Ave Maria combine opera singing with violin. Other examples include Puccini’s O Mio Babbino Caro and Dvorak’s Song to the Moon.
Beyond those staples, couples can explore:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Many of Mozart’s operas like his finale from The Marriage of Figaro radiate romance in their melodies and lyrics.
Giacomo Puccini – Puccini’s passionate Italian operas featured love stories and soaring soprano arias, like “O mio Babbino Caro.”
Giuseppe Verdi – Verdi dominated Italian opera in the 1800s with intense, dramatic vocals. “La donna è mobile” adds a playful lightness.
Richard Wagner – Wagner’s German Romantic operas incorporated rich orchestration with vocals. “Bridal Chorus” is a well-known excerpt.
Enhance the Reception with a String Quartet or Pianist
While most couples focus on finding the perfect classical ceremony songs, classical wedding music can extend beyond the processional and recessional. Hiring a live string quartet or pianist to play at the wedding reception adds new depth through interactive song requests and captivating visual performance.
Seeing the emotional nuances and technical mastery behind live classical music connects with guests differently than putting on a recording. The quartet or pianist can learn special song requests for the newlyweds, making interactive dedications and performances. The variety and artistry keep guests engaged.
Violinists, cellists, bassists, and pianists often form duos, trios, or quartets to offer diverse instrumentation and a balanced sound. Harpists also provide a magical, elegant musical addition to receptions. Couples should meet potential live classical wedding acts in person or online to get a feel for pricing, repertoire, and performance style before booking.
Benefits of Live Music At Wedding Receptions
Personalization – Couples can request special classical renditions of songs with meaning.
Interactive – Guests can make live music requests and connect with musicians.
Ambiance – Live instruments lend rich, nuanced sound compared to recordings.
Visual Appeal – Watching the live technique resonates more emotionally.
Coordination – Musicians work with planners to time key moments.
Live Classical Wedding Music Ensemble Types
Solo Violinist – A single violinist brings sweet, romantic sounds. They can stroll around the venue.
Violin Duo – Violin with cello or guitar offers harmonic texture. Duos work well strolling or stationary.
String Trio – Violin, viola, and cello trios enable three-part harmony with full string resonance.
String Quartet – Two violinists, one violist, and one cellist create the balanced, quintessential chamber ensemble.
Piano Soloist – One pianist is perfect for emotional ceremony songs and background reception music.
Flute & Guitar Duo – Flute with classical guitar blends two melodic lead instruments in an interesting mix.
Hiring & Booking Live Wedding Musicians
Define Needs – Determine optimal group size and instruments to match wedding style/budget.
Listen to Samples – Check YouTube videos to assess musical quality and performance style.
Compare Packages – Weigh options for ceremony vs. reception music, pricing, and options.
Read Reviews – Verify third-party reviews on Google or Facebook to evaluate service.
Book Early – Reserve your favorite musician at least 6 months in advance to get your date.
Meet In-Person – If possible, meet in person before booking to confirm rapport.
Craft Unique Wedding Playlists with Classical Covers
In addition to the dedicated classical ceremony or reception music, today’s classical covers of modern pop/rock songs allow couples to sprinkle the timeless wedding genre throughout the event. The Piano Guys, 2CELLOS, and other classical groups produce multi-genre renditions.
Their instrumental covers retain enough original melody for guests to recognize pop favorites, while the classical treatment adds new energy. Featured in wedding playlists, these classical crossovers keep the dance floor going with fresh takes on songs guests already love.
Soft classical versions of modern hits also work well for background music during dinner or while mingling. Vitamin String Quartet and the London Symphony Orchestra have albums dedicated to mellow, acoustic classical covers of songs across decades and styles. Couples can blend genres with these classical renditions to craft unique wedding reception playlists.
Top Artists for Classical Wedding Song Covers
The Piano Guys – This piano/cello duo produces cinematic classical/pop mashups with powerful percussion. Examples: “Fight Song/Amazing Grace”, “Perfect/Photograph”
2Cellos – The dynamic cello duo adds a classical edge to rock and pop tunes. Examples: “Smooth Criminal”, “Welcome to the Jungle”
Vitamin String Quartet – This popular quartet creates hundreds of stripped-down string covers of modern hits. Examples: “Shallow” (Gaga), “Lose Yourself” (Eminem)
The Tenors – This Canadian group combines classical vocal training with pop songs. Examples: “Hallelujah”, “Who Wants to Live Forever”
Simply Three – Violin, cello, and percussion put a strings spin on chart hits. Examples: “Stressed Out” (Twenty One Pilots), “Blank Space” (Taylor Swift)
Sonya Belousova – Sonya’s violin adds drama and pathos to rock/pop ballads. Examples: “Space Oddity” (David Bowie), “Nothing Else Matters” (Metallica)
Additional Classical Wedding Music Ideas
Beyond the traditional processional marches and energetic recessional exits, classical music can set the mood for every wedding moment when you dig deeper into the genre.
Prelude Music
Light classical guitar or piano makes for gentle prelude music as guests are seated before the ceremony. Try:
- Acoustic classical covers of popular songs
- Peaceful solo piano works by composers like Chopin, Liszt, or Satie
- Renaissance classical lute or guitar music
Interlude Music
During wedding ceremony interludes when transitioning between segments, sustained classical notes can fill space elegantly. Try:
- Solo cello or violin
- Harp glissandos
- Sustained choir notes
Signing Music
Sweet, emotionally evocative classical music sets the mood while the wedding party signs marriage certificates. Try:
- Short piano selections like Gymnopédie No. 1 by Erik Satie
- Excerpts from romantic ballets like Swan Lake
- Excerpts from operas or concertos like Puccini’s La Bohème
Dinner Music
Lighter, slower-paced classical music makes pleasing dinner background music. Try:
- Solo piano or string covers of pop songs
- Chamber music by composers like Debussy, Vivaldi, or Bach
- Excerpts from longer classical works, editing faster sections
First Dance Music
In addition to traditional classical wedding marches, couples can pick a meaningful classical song for their first dance. Try:
- Violin or piano renditions of romantic modern pop ballads
- Short selections from ballets, operas, or concertos
- Newer classical crossover songs
Parent Dances
Honor parents with special classical parent/child dance songs. Try:
- Sentimental classical covers such as “Wind Beneath My Wings”
- Sweet waltzes like Brahms’ Waltz No. 15
- Nostalgic pop classics covered with strings
Cake Cutting Music
Light, bubbly classical music keeps the cake-cutting segment feeling bright and playful. Try:
- Short lively Baroque pieces for strings
- Minutes or other court dance styles
- Waltzes like Strauss II’s Voices of Spring
Farewell Music
As newlyweds make their grand exit, rousing classical music raises the energy. Try:
- Bold orchestral recessional marches
- Triumphant opera choruses
- Short upbeat symphonic finales
Postlude Music
As guests mingle and exit after ceremonies or receptions, classical music maintains momentum. Try:
- Light conversational chamber music
- Continuation of the recessional music
- Upbeat classical covers of popular songs
Conclusion
Classical wedding music carries generations of artistic tradition that can make any bride and groom’s ceremony feel more elegant and meaningful. From pronounced wedding marches to soft string quartet covers of modern hits, couples have a spectrum of classical music options to choose from. Working closely with your wedding planner and reception DJ or band allows you to tap into their expertise to find the perfect classical music selections for every part of your special day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular classical pieces for wedding ceremonies?
Some of the most popular classical pieces for wedding ceremonies include Pachelbel’s Canon in D, Mendelssohn’s Wedding March, Bach’s Air on the G String, Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, and Clarke’s Prince of Denmark’s March.
How can live classical music enhance the wedding reception experience?
Live classical music at the reception, such as a string quartet or pianist, adds an interactive and visually appealing element. Musicians can learn special song requests and provide a rich, nuanced sound compared to recordings.
What are some modern classical covers that work well for weddings?
Artists like The Piano Guys, 2Cellos, and Vitamin String Quartet create beautiful instrumental covers of modern pop and rock songs. These classical renditions add a fresh take on favorite tunes while maintaining an elegant wedding atmosphere.
Beyond the ceremony, what are other moments to incorporate classical music?
Classical music works well for prelude music as guests are seated, interludes during the ceremony, signing of the marriage certificate, dinner background music, special dances, the cake cutting, and the grand exit.
How far in advance should couples book live classical musicians?
It’s recommended to reserve your favorite classical musicians at least 6 months before the wedding date to ensure availability. Meet in person if possible before booking to confirm rapport and package details.
What are some tips for creating unique wedding playlists that include classical music?
Mix in instrumental classical covers of modern pop and rock songs throughout the playlist to blend genres in a fresh way. The covers retain enough original melody for guests to recognize while adding classical flair.
What should couples consider when choosing between different classical ensembles?
Think about the overall wedding style and budget when picking a classical ensemble. Solo instruments work well for smaller, intimate weddings. Larger groups like string quartets provide a fuller sound for grander events. Compare pricing and package options.
