~ 400 +First Dance Songs ~

In most wedding ceremonies, there are at least four major parts which utilize different types of themed music. These are usually instrumental, but if you know nothing about classical music, here are some popular choices along with some more contemporary selections.

Prelude

The prelude usually contains classical selections. Some common choices include:

Etude, Chopin
Prelude, Chopin
Polovtsian Dance, Borodin
Sonata #15, Mozart
Air On The G String (from Orchestral Suite No.3), Bach
Ode de Joy, Beethoven
The Four Seasons, Vivaldi
Endless Love, Lionel Richie
Wedding Song, Peter, Paul & Mary

Procession

The procession is second, where the mother of the bride is seated and the bride begins her march down the isle. A few popular selections are:

The Bridal Chorus, Wagner
Minuet in G, Beethoven
Canon in D, Pachelbel
Trumpet Voluntary, Clarke
The Velocity of Love, Susan Cianni

Interlude (optional)

The interlude comes next, at which point you and your fiancé are may exchange roses or have a candlelighting. Popular choices here include:

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, J.S. Bach
Sonata, Traditional
Ave Maria, Schubert
Lord's Prayer, traditional
The Rose, Bette Midler
Wind Beneath My Wings, Bette Midler
Evergreen, Barbra Streisand

Recessional

The final part is the recessional where you and your spouse leave the ceremony as newlyweds. An upbeat song is usually selected.

Traditional "Wedding March"
I Feel Good, James Brown
Jammin', Bob Marley

Before making your selections, consult your officiant, considering that some churches don't even allow the Here Comes the Bride theme. The choice is up to you, but if it is a formal ceremony, don't be afraid to admit if you know nothing about classical music. The musicians or the officiant can make the choices for you. Whatever music you choose, make sure you finalize your selections as soon as possible.

portions of this text excerpted from "The Wedding Connection".