Following list features some of the most popular Classical Wedding Ceremony Music. Some churches only permit classical music for wedding ceremonies. These popular pieces can be played by a string ensemble, a guitarist, a harpist or an organ.

Classical Wedding Ceremony Music

 

1. Canon in D – Pachelbel
2. Trumpet Voluntary – Clarke
3. “Bridal Chorus”from Lohengrin – Wagner
4. “Spring” from The Four Seasons – Vivaldi
5. Ave Maria – Schubert
6. Ave Maria – Gounod
7. “Air” from Water Music – Handel
8. Air on a G string – Bach
9. Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach
10. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik – Mozart
11. Wedding March – Mendelssohn
12. The Royal Fireworks – Handel
13. Greensleeves – Anon
14. Amazing Grace – Traditional
15. Ode to Joy (From Symphony No.9) – Beethoven

Classical Wedding Ceremony Music: A Timeless Guide for Your Perfect Day

Your wedding ceremony’s musical backdrop sets the emotional tone for one of life’s most precious moments. Classical wedding ceremony music has adorned matrimonial celebrations for centuries, offering a sublime blend of elegance, tradition, and romantic expression. Whether performed by a string quartet, skilled organist, or accomplished harpist, these masterpieces can transform your ceremony into an unforgettable experience.

Processional Selections

Canon in D – Johann Pachelbel

Perfect for: The bride’s entrance or bridesmaids’ processional

A masterpiece of Baroque music, Pachelbel’s Canon is a quintessential piece of classical wedding ceremony music that creates an atmosphere of serene elegance with its gentle, flowing melody. The piece builds gradually with layered harmonies, making it ideal for timing the wedding party’s entrance. Its familiar yet timeless quality provides the perfect blend of sophistication and emotional resonance.

Trumpet Voluntary – Jeremiah Clarke

Perfect for: The grand entrance of the bride

Originally titled “Prince of Denmark’s March,” this majestic piece commands attention with its triumphant trumpet melody. As a standout example of classical wedding ceremony music, Clarke’s composition offers the perfect balance of regal sophistication and joyful celebration, making it a popular alternative to the traditional Wedding March for the bride’s entrance.

“Bridal Chorus” from Lohengrin – Richard Wagner

Perfect for: The traditional bride’s processional

Universally recognized as “Here Comes the Bride,” Wagner’s piece has become synonymous with wedding ceremonies. Composed as part of his opera Lohengrin, this dignified melody carries the gravitas of tradition while maintaining an air of romantic anticipation.

Ceremony Music

“Spring” from The Four Seasons – Antonio Vivaldi

Perfect for: Pre-ceremony gathering or during the signing of the register

Vivaldi’s vibrant composition captures the essence of new beginnings with its bright, optimistic melody. As a staple of classical wedding ceremony music, its energetic passages interwoven with moments of tender beauty create the perfect atmosphere of joyful anticipation, setting the stage for an unforgettable walk down the aisle.

Ave Maria – Franz Schubert

Perfect for: Moments of reflection or candle lighting ceremonies

Schubert’s breathtaking arrangement offers a moment of spiritual contemplation during your ceremony. This piece’s profound beauty and emotional depth make it especially meaningful for religious ceremonies or moments requiring sacred reverence.

Ave Maria – Charles Gounod

Perfect for: Religious ceremonies or meditative moments

Gounod’s interpretation, based on Bach’s first prelude, brings a different character to the Ave Maria. With its sweeping melody and romantic style, this timeless piece embodies the elegance of classical wedding ceremony music, creating an atmosphere of divine celebration

Elegant Interludes

“Air” from Water Music – George Frideric Handel

Perfect for: Seating of honored guests or unity ceremonies

Part of Handel’s celebrated Water Music suite, this stately Air provides an elegant musical interlude. With its graceful melody and refined character, it exemplifies the beauty of classical wedding ceremony music, making it ideal for moments that require a dignified and timeless accompaniment.

Air on the G String – Johann Sebastian Bach

Perfect for: Intimate moments during the ceremony

Bach’s beloved arrangement offers a perfect blend of emotional depth and musical sophistication. Its gentle, flowing melody creates an atmosphere of intimate tenderness, making it ideal for special moments like unity candle lighting or communion.

Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Johann Sebastian Bach

Perfect for: Processionals or during the unity ceremony

This cherished piece combines spiritual devotion with musical brilliance, making it a timeless choice for classical wedding ceremony music. Bach’s masterful composition creates an atmosphere of joyful celebration while maintaining a sense of reverent dignity, perfect for marking a sacred union.

Celebratory Pieces

Eine Kleine Nachtmusik – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Perfect for: Pre-ceremony gathering or post-ceremony moments

Mozart’s “Little Night Music” brings an air of sophisticated cheerfulness to your celebration. Its lively yet refined character makes it perfect for creating an welcoming atmosphere as guests arrive or gather.

Wedding March – Felix Mendelssohn

Perfect for: The recessional

Originally part of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Mendelssohn’s Wedding March is the quintessential recessional piece. A cornerstone of classical wedding ceremony music, its triumphant melody perfectly captures the joy and celebration of the newly married couple’s first moments together.

Music for the Royal Fireworks – George Frideric Handel

Perfect for: Grand recessionals or post-ceremony celebration

Handel’s magnificent composition brings majestic grandeur to your celebration. Its powerful, jubilant character makes it perfect for marking momentous occasions with appropriate splendor.

Traditional Favorites

Greensleeves – Traditional

Perfect for: Pre-ceremony music or quiet moments

This beloved English folk tune brings a touch of timeless romance to your ceremony. Its gentle, flowing melody creates an atmosphere of historic elegance while maintaining intimate emotional connection.

Amazing Grace – Traditional

Perfect for: Moments of reflection or family unity

This beloved hymn transcends its religious origins to offer universal messages of hope and grace. Its simple yet profound melody creates powerful emotional resonance, making it perfect for moments of deep significance.

Ode to Joy (From Symphony No.9) – Ludwig van Beethoven

Perfect for: Triumphant recessionals or celebration moments

Beethoven’s masterpiece embodies pure joy and celebration. Its uplifting melody and powerful progression make it an excellent choice for couples seeking a bold, emotionally stirring conclusion to their ceremony.

Planning Your Musical Journey

Remember that while these classical pieces have stood the test of time, your ceremony music should reflect your personal story and style. Consider working with your musicians to arrange these pieces in ways that best suit your ceremony’s flow and emotional journey. Many classical pieces can be adapted for different instrumental combinations, allowing you to maintain their timeless beauty while creating a unique sound for your special day.

Whether you choose a full string ensemble, organ, or intimate solo performance, these classical selections offer the perfect foundation for creating memorable moments during your wedding ceremony. Let the music guide your guests through the emotional journey of your celebration, from the anticipation of your entrance to the joy of your first moments as a married couple.