Catholic Wedding Music: Complete Guide and Selection

Choosing the music for your wedding is one of the most exciting and personal parts of planning. Music has the power to transform the atmosphere, evoke emotions, and make every moment unforgettable. If you're getting married in the Catholic Church, the musical selection takes on an even deeper significance, as it accompanies and enhances the holiness of the ceremony.

We know it can seem a bit overwhelming at first. Which songs are allowed? When should music play? How do I find the right musicians? Don't worry, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Think of us as that older sister who's already been through this and wants your day to be absolutely perfect.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through choosing the ideal music for your Catholic ceremony, ensuring that every note reflects your love and respects the solemnity of the occasion.

Understanding Music in the Liturgy

Before diving into the songs, it's helpful to understand why music is so important in a Mass, especially at a wedding. In the Catholic tradition, music is not merely decorative background; it's a form of prayer. It helps the entire congregation unite in spirit and lift their hearts toward God.

The Church has guidelines about what type of music is appropriate. Generally, sacred or liturgical music—music composed for worship—is preferred. This doesn't mean your options are boring or outdated. Quite the opposite! There's a universe of beautiful and moving melodies to explore.

Music and Liturgical Seasons

Here's a detail you might not know: the type of music can also vary depending on the liturgical season in which you marry. The Church divides the year into different spiritual "seasons."

• Advent (the four weeks before Christmas): A time of waiting and preparation. Music tends to be more subdued and reflective.
• Christmas (from Christmas to the Baptism of the Lord): A season of joy and celebration. Carols and festive chants can be included.
• Lent (the 40 days before Easter): A period of penance and reflection. Music is very restrained and the "Alleluia" is generally omitted. If your wedding is during Lent, it's very important to discuss musical options with the priest.
• Easter (the 50 days after Easter): It's the most festive time of the year! Music is exultant and full of "Alleluias."
• Ordinary Time (the rest of the year): The most common period for weddings. You have more flexibility here, always within sacred music.

Don't stress about this. Your pastor or the church's music coordinator will guide you. It's just good information to keep in mind and shows you've done your homework.

Guide to Selecting Music for Each Moment

A wedding Mass has well-defined parts, and music plays a key role in several of them. Here's a breakdown of each moment with suggestions to inspire you.

1. Entrance Music (Processional)

This is the first major moment. The music creates atmosphere while guests await, and then accompanies the groom's entrance, the wedding party, and finally, the bride.

• While guests arrive: You can choose soft instrumental music, such as classical organ pieces, string quartet, or harp. This creates an atmosphere of reverence and anticipation.
• Groom's entrance and wedding party: Usually, a piece is chosen that marks the formal beginning of the ceremony. It can be majestic but not as grand as the bride's entrance.
• Bride's entrance: The grand moment! The music here should be special and exciting. It's your big entrance, so choose something that makes you feel unique.

Song Suggestions:

• Traditional:

  • Canon in D Major by Pachelbel (a timeless classic, perfect for the bride).
  • Bridal Chorus by Wagner (the traditional "Here Comes the Bride," though some churches prefer it for the recessional).
  • Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring by Bach (elegant and joyful).

• Contemporary (sacred):

  • Pescador de Hombres (a beloved song with profound meaning).
  • Near to You, Lord (emotional and solemn).
  • The Spirit of God is in This Place (a spiritual welcome).

2. Offertory

This is the moment when bread and wine are presented at the altar. It's a moment of offering and preparation. The music should be calm and reflective, inviting meditation.

Song Suggestions:

• Traditional:

  • Ave Maria by Schubert or Gounod (a classic of great beauty, though sometimes reserved for after communion).
  • Panis Angelicus by César Franck (solemn and celestial).

• Contemporary:

  • We Offer You the Wine and Bread (a very common and appropriate liturgical song).
  • Know That You Will Come (expresses waiting and hope).
  • A Golden Stalk of Grain (a beautiful metaphor for the Eucharist).

3. Communion

During communion, the faithful approach to receive the Eucharist. It's the most sacred moment of the Mass, and music should foster personal prayer and union with God. The melodies are usually soft and centered on the mystery of the sacrament.

Song Suggestions:

• Traditional:

  • Adoro te Devote (a classic Eucharistic hymn attributed to St. Thomas Aquinas).
  • Oh, Good Jesus (a simple yet profound musical prayer).

• Contemporary:

  • No One Loves You Like I Do (a moving song that has accompanied many couples).
  • Soul of Christ (a traditional prayer made into song, very powerful).
  • You Are No Longer Bread and Wine (poetically explains the mystery of transubstantiation).

4. Recessional

You're married! Now it's time to celebrate. The recessional music should be joyful, triumphant, and festive. It reflects the happiness of the moment and accompanies the newlyweds as they exit the church, followed by their wedding party and guests.

Song Suggestions:

• Traditional:

  • Wedding March by Mendelssohn (the classic recessional, full of energy).
  • Ode to Joy by Beethoven (a universal hymn to happiness).
  • Hallelujah from Messiah by Handel (majestic and spectacular).

• Contemporary:

  • Mother (a nod to the Virgin Mary in thanksgiving).
  • Color Hope by Diego Torres (while not liturgical, some more flexible churches may allow it if it has special meaning for you and the priest approves. Always ask first!).

Tips for Planning Your Wedding Music

Now that you have a clearer idea of what to play at each moment, here are some practical tips to make everything perfect. To learn more about other aspects of your Catholic ceremony, check out our guides on Catholic wedding protocol and traditions and readings for Catholic weddings.

1. Talk to Your Parish

This is the first and most important step. Each church has its own rules. Some have a music director or resident choir you must work with. Others let you hire outside musicians, but with certain conditions. Ask:

• What are the guidelines on permitted music?
• Are there any forbidden songs or genres? (Most prohibit secular or pop music).
• Can we hire our own musicians? If so, do they need approval?
• Does the church have sound equipment we can use?

Being clear and respectful from the start will save you many headaches.

2. Choose Your Musicians

The choice between a choir, soloist, string quartet, or organist will depend on your budget and the style you're looking for.

• Organist and soloist: The most classical and traditional option. A good organist can make the church resonate with majesty.
• Choir: A polyphonic choir can add an incredible layer of solemnity and beauty. It can be the church's own choir or one specialized in weddings.
• String quartet: Brings an unparalleled touch of elegance and romance. Perfect for classical instrumental pieces.
• Harp or classical guitar: For a more intimate and delicate atmosphere.

3. Consider Instrumental vs. Vocal Arrangements

Not all pieces need to have lyrics. A beautiful instrumental melody can be just as moving. In fact, at moments like guests arriving or during the signing of the register, instrumental music works better because it doesn't distract.

For key moments like communion or the offertory, a song with meaningful lyrics can help people focus on the significance of what's happening. Think about a balance between both.

4. Listen, Listen, and Listen Again

Take time with your partner to listen to different options. Create a playlist on Spotify or YouTube. Close your eyes and imagine how each song would sound in the church. Does it move you? Does it reflect what you feel? This is a beautiful part of planning—enjoy it together!

The Soundtrack to Your "I Do"

Choosing music for your Catholic ceremony is much more than selecting a playlist. It's creating the spiritual and emotional atmosphere for one of the most important moments of your life. Every melody, every note, will contribute to the story you'll tell that day.

Don't pressure yourself to find the most "impressive" pieces. Focus on those that resonate with your love story and your faith. When music is authentic and comes from the heart, it has the power to elevate the entire ceremony and leave an indelible mark on everyone present.

Allow yourself to enjoy this process. It's a unique opportunity to connect with your partner on a deeper level and to begin shaping the soundtrack of your life together.