Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life, and what better way to set the tone for your ceremony than with live string music. In this post, we'll guide you through the process of choosing music that resonates with your love story, creating an unforgettable soundtrack as you embark on a new chapter together.
Our Standard Ceremony Music Program
Our typical ceremony music program consists of prelude, processional, and recessional. Occasionally, clients request postlude and interlude, which creates a nice flow to the ceremony. On average, our clients choose 3-5 for their ceremony and opt for our pre-selected playlists. However, you are welcome to customize all of your song selections. Below, you’ll find an overview of each part of the ceremony.
Prelude
Prelude music sets the tone of the wedding, as guests eagerly anticipate the beginning of the ceremony. Prelude will typically begin half an hour before the processional as background music while guests are arriving, chatting, and taking their seats.
5-7 songs, typically the ensemble will have pre-set playlists you can choose from.
Processional
Processional music accompanies the entrance of the family, wedding party, and the bride. We recommend choosing 2-4 songs for processional, depending on the size of your wedding party.
1-4 songs, depending on the size of your ceremony. For more intimate ceremonies, expect to choose 1-2 songs. For larger ceremonies, expect to select 3-4 songs.
Recessional
Recessional music, lively and uplifting, plays at the end of the ceremony as the couple walks down the aisle after pronouncing“I do.”
1 upbeat song
Postlude and Interlude
Postlude music, upbeat and lively, is performed after recessional and serves as a nice transition to cocktail hour.
Interlude music may accompany ceremony rituals such as candle lighting. We recommend selecting slow and lyrical music.
1 song each
Guide to Selecting Your Perfect Song
Reflect on Your Love Story
Begin your journey to finding the perfect song by reflecting on your unique love story. Consider the moments that define your relationship – the first meeting, shared interests, or even a special date. These personal connections will guide you toward a song that holds deep sentimental value.
Consider the Atmosphere
Think about the atmosphere you want to create during your ceremony. Are you envisioning a classic and timeless ambiance, or perhaps a more modern and upbeat feel? The mood of your chosen song should align with the overall theme and atmosphere of your wedding.
Explore Different Genres
String quartets can beautifully interpret a wide range of musical genres, from classical to contemporary. Explore different genres and styles to find the one that resonates with you as a couple. Whether it's a classic piece by Mozart or a modern hit, the quartet's arrangement will infuse it with a unique charm.
Consult with Your Musicians:
Your musicians are experienced professionals with a wealth of knowledge about what works well in a wedding setting. Consult with them about your preferences, and they can offer valuable insights and suggestions based on their expertise.
Start from the Bridal Song
The bridal song typically holds the most sentimental value for the couple. Start your song selection from the bridal song, then move to processional and recessional music. Let the bridal song define the ambiance of your wedding, with other music supporting this vision.
Research and Visualize
Once you've chosen your perfect song, take the time to find a string arrangement on youtube. Our favorite reference videos are by StringSpace and Vitamin String Quartet. Listening to arrangements on youtube will give you a feel for how they will sound on your big day. While most popular songs are available online as string arrangements, occasionally that’s not the case. Please contact us if you’d like a song sample, recorded just for you!
Don't see your perfect song on our list? No worries, we love taking requests!
Real Life Example:
Courtney & Ryan, 2023
Seating of the families, bridesmaids, and groomsmen - Perfect by Ed Sheeran
Bridal Entrance - A Thousand Years by Christina Perri
Interlude - Meditation from Thais by Massenet
Recessional - Here Comes the Sun by the Beatles
Real Life Example:
Tiffany & Ron, 2022
Seating of the families - Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring by Bach
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen - Moon River by Mancini
Bridal Entrance - Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis
Recessional - Marry You by Bruno Mars
With careful consideration, personalization, and collaboration with your quartet, you'll create an ambiance that mirrors the beauty of your love story.
Questions? Reach out to us and we’ll help you create a timeless and unforgettable soundtrack for your wedding day!
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