Weddingguide


	MUSIC IN THE CHURCH
	by Con Grazia

	Weddings are remembered for the emotions they arouse in those who attend
	them. There is no better way to arouse emotions or calm the spirit than with
	music. Think of how many people quietly wipe away a tear when they just
	hear the wedding march! Who wants deathly silence during those awkward
	moments, for example, when the groom struggles to take the rings from the
	ring cushion? Music soothes the spirit and creates just the right atmosphere
	for those special moments.

	To cross the t’s and dot the i’s on that special day, which you want to
	remember fondly for ever, take the time to choose the right music group. Do
	your research thoroughly and go to listen to the musicians you think you
	might like to choose. Many musicians give public performances and also sell
	CDs of their music. Remember, the cheapest or the most expensive
	quotations are not necessarily an accurate indication of the quality of the
	music.

	Before you make an appointment with the musicians, be certain of what you
	are looking for in a group. If you already have some information available,
	that can simplify the process considerably and you can make your
	arrangements much more quickly. The musicians will need the following
	information from you:

	• What is available in the chapel or venue in terms of space, the instruments
	already there (such as an organ or a piano), and power points.
	• A list of your music preferences so that they can get a clear idea of your
	needs. If you have any special requests, tell them as quickly as possible so
	that they have enough time to prepare.
	• What the participation of the various role players in the service (the retinue,
	parents, minister, etc.) involves and how the music can complement that.

	MUSICAL ITEMS BEFORE AND AFTER THE CEREMONY:
	• Use a variety of light classical music pieces as background for when the
	guests arrive.
	• Arrange with somebody to coordinate the events before the church service.
	This person must give the musicians a clear signal when the bride and
	retinue are ready to enter. That will prevent a situation in which the music
	starts to play at the wrong time.
	• The retinue can enter with the bride or they can precede her, accompanied
	by elegant music that contrasts with the bridal march.
	• The entry of the bride: The bride can choose music that suits her outfit and
	mood. For a bit of variation, a different instrument can be used from the
	one usually used for the traditional wedding march, for example, the
	Mendelssohn wedding march played on a saxophone, with
	accompaniment. For something quite different, choose an inspiring vocal
	piece combined with instruments to capture the specialness of the moment.





	• The exchange of the rings and the lighting of the candle of unity are very
	romantic moments and the right music can enhance that specialness. The
	guests can sing a hymn or the music group can perform a suitable item.
	• While the couple signs the register, the guests can stay in the chapel and
	witness the legal part of the ceremony instead of leaving the church.
	Choose suitable background music.
	• The date, time and place must be confirmed clearly and in writing. Inform
	everyone concerned without any delay if there are any changes in the
	arrangements.
	• Find out at what time the musicians will arrive and check that the chapel or
	venue will be open (unlocked).

	The last thing you should need to worry about is guests standing around
	waiting for you while your photographs are being taken. If the guests are
	listening to lovely music while they sip sherry, champagne or fruit juice, they
	are not going to be bored. Saxophone music helps to create a light mood
	and a convivial atmosphere. The ambiance that is created by live musicians
	performing during dinner can simply never be equalled by a CD.

	If there are enough people who will dance with you, you can book a mobile
	discotheque or dance band with a good reputation. Ensure that the volume
	of the music, even for dancing, is not too loud, so that people who do not
	want to dance can still enjoy chatting to one another.

	Loud, unsuitable music is often the reason why many people leave a
	reception early.

	If you want the best of both worlds, book a group that can provide music
	during the meal, which usually takes two to three hours, and a mobile disco
	that can take over from them for the dancing.

	It is a good idea to choose a group that can perform various music styles. It
	ensures that there will be something for everyone. Make sure that they know
	what types of music you really dislike. Remember to choose special music for
	when you walk into the reception and for the first dance.

	Invest in the ambiance at your wedding – choose tasteful music that you and
	your guests can enjoy together.