Wedding Music Help

[mountainman99]

Hello,

I’m a complete novice when it comes to knowing what music is allowed at Catholic weddings, so please don’t flame me. The songs I like, my pianist friend is having a hard time playing, and he suggested some alternatives. I told him I’d figure out if they’re allowed or not. These would be for the prelude, while the guests are being seated.

He suggested:
Brahms - Intermezzo in A major Opus 118
Debussey - Clair de Lune
Chopin (I think his works aren’t allowed, but I’m not sure)

I’m also not sure if the piece of music matters or if it’s the composer i.e. if a composer composed some sacred music, all his work is deemed ok. I’m also not sure how much it matters if it’s just for the prelude. I really want my friend to play Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, but he’s looking for a simple arrangement, so I’m going to have to find that for him. Suggestions on where to find a simple arrangement for that would also be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[canne]

You should check with your parish as to what is allowed at your Wedding Mass. Most Churches have some guidelines as to what is okay at the Mass. Congratulations BTW.

 

[mountainman99]

I’m getting married in a chapel in the mountains that isn’t really a parish. A priest from my parish will be performing the cermony/mass, and I’m meeting him Friday, so I guess I’ll ask him. Thanks

 

[Epeenchin]

Congrats M99, usually we ask our parish which is acceptable, some of the parish priest that I know of have different views, he discourage piano playing or wear white, he tried to encourage us to be in our traditional costumes and using traditional music (gongs) most of the bride want to be in white and that’s one reason some of them refuse to be married in our parish … sad

 

[kage_ar]

I’d suggest you ask this over in the Liturgy forum, Benedictgal is a VERY smart poster when it comes to Liturgical Music.

 

[kmpreo]

As for searching for arrangements of music, I would first check a local music store. Most times the sales clerks can direct you to the wedding music section, if not suggest what arrangements would work best. You can also look at jwpepper.com at their piano section. You can listen to some (if not most) song samples, and sometimes even look at the music online. If you are not a musician and cannot tell if the music is easy or hard, try to look in the store or online with your pianist. They can tell. I hope this helps! (btw…I graduated with a music degree and have played for weddings before.)

 

[LindaSK]

Congratulations!

I also play for weddings and teach piano. I agree that checking out your local music store would help. Pachelbel’s Canon in D is a popular choice, as are Trumpet Tune and Trumpet Voluntary. I have found easier arrangements for some of my kids in sacred student books. The priest should be able to give you literature on appropriate music. Or, ask the secretary - she generally has a good grasp on helpful literature the church has available. At least, ours does!

God bless