Music and Hymns
Music can play a very important role in establishing an atmosphere at the ceremony. The bride and groom should think about what worked at other weddings they have attended and build on those impressions.
- A meeting with the church's organist can be a good way to begin selecting the music for a church ceremony.
- It is also a good idea to 'hire' the church's organist and choir. The congregation is more likely to join in with the hymns and any deficiencies in the congregation's singing will be concealed.
- Professional musicians, choirs and soloists can be hired on an individual basis - a quick search on the Internet or asking friends for suggestions will yield countless results.
- Some companies are dedicated to providing a complete wedding music package, from organists and trumpeters for the ceremony to DJs and jazz bands for the reception.
- A cautionary note: when professional musicians are used, they will expect an enhanced fee - often double the original - if the service is being videoed.
- When choosing hymns it is important to consider how well known they are, and how easy they are to sing, but, equally, the best-known hymns or songs may not be appropriate for this particular occasion.
- Three hymns is the norm - at the beginning, in the middle and at the end of the service. This gives the proceedings structure, and the congregation will feel included by taking an active role at these key points.
- If communion is taken during the service, a fourth hymn may be sung after communion.
- Weddings are private functions, so you do not need copyright permission to sing hymns (but you may need it to print the words in the order of service sheets).
