Guide Note

The selection of the wedding music is an important part of any betrothal celebration as it sets the tone for the ceremony and reception. Whether a couple chooses classical or modern music to be played by an orchestra, a live band or a disc jockey, the wedding music should complement, or underscore, the wedding theme from the prelude through the last dance.

Fast Facts

1. Selection of wedding music may be influenced by cultural or religious affiliations
2. Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" from A Midsummer Night's Dream and Wagner's Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin are popular choices for the processional
3. Many U.S. receptions feature up-beat music such as "YMCA" by The Village People, "Celebration" by Kool and the Gang or "We are Family" by Sister Sledge
4. Reception music may also include group dances such as The Electric Slide/"Electric Boogie" by Marcia Griffiths, The Chicken Dance, "Macarena" by Los Del Rio or "The Hustle" by Van McCoy and the Soul City Symphony to encourage guest participation

Events Requiring Music Selections

1. Prelude to the wedding ceremony
2. Processional
3. The wedding ceremony
4. Recessional
5. Interlude between the ceremony and the reception
6. Couple's entrance/introduction
7. Official song/first dance
8. Father-daughter dance
9. Mother-son dance
10. Cutting the cake
11. Last dance

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