Classical Wedding Processional Songs

Timeless Melodies for Your Walk Down the Aisle

Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life. The choice of the music for the processional sets the theme of the whole ceremony. Classical wedding processional songs have stood the test of time, offering elegance, emotion, and a sense of tradition to your special day. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most beloved classical pieces to accompany your walk down the aisle.

Pachelbel’s Canon in D

Few of the classical wedding procession songs are as caught in the hearts of all lovers of music as Johann Pachelbel’s Canon in D Major. This baroque work, LSB of a soft flowing melody that gently increases in intensity, produces a spirit of calm and romance as you step through the doorway.

Repetitive framework of the piece also facilitates its adaptation for any processional length. Whether you’re planning a short walk or a more extended entrance, Canon in D Major can be tailored to fit your needs perfectly.

Wagner’s Bridal Chorus

The Traditional “Here Comes the Bride”. For wedding parties desiring a deeply traditional processional, Richard Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus” from the opera “Lohengrin” is a classic selection. Also known as “Here Comes the Bride”, this work has always been a central part of wedding ceremonies for all these years.

The powerful organ music and recognizable melody make for a grand entrance that will have all your guests on their feet. Although there are some couples looking for more contemporary options, the Bridal Chorus remains a popular choice for the couples who would like to go all out for wedding tradition.

This selection will sound beautiful on any instrumentation from a duo to a full string orchestra. The choice is truly yours on how you’d like it played.

Jeremiah Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary

A Regal Entrance - if you’re looking for a processional song with a touch of regality, consider Jeremiah Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary. This baroque work, known as the prince of Denmark’s March, contains a triumphant trumpet fanfare that results in a highly majestic effect.

The Trumpet Voluntary, in particular, is well-ventilated for more than a large space or an outdoor performance, but the sound projection is good enough to be heard “outside” of the space. It is a good choice for couples that wish to make a grand and lasting exit.

Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba

As a whimsical choice to a more festive and lively processional, George Frideric Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba from oratorio “Solomon” is a welcome one. This is a peppy piece and it overflows with joy and elation, with its frisky strings and lively rhythms[4].

The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba is perfect for couples who want to infuse their ceremony with a sense of celebration right from the start. Its cheerful nature sets a festive tone that will carry through to the rest of your wedding day.

Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring

Johann Sebastian Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring is a favorite for pairs looking for a processional song of beauty and spirituality, alike. This chorale from Cantata 147 has a flowing, serene melody, producing a feeling of serenity and awe.

Usually played on organ or by a small group, Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring provides a brief oasis of peace during the flurry of your wedding day. Its age and thus its timelessness have made it a popular choice throughout both formal and informal ceremonies.

Mendelssohn’s Wedding March

Although not a common processional, Felix Mendelssohn’s Wedding March from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is of interest as a classic recessional. This joyous work is frequently performed as the bridal couple leaves the sanctuary, whereupon the organ volume swells with triumphant organ music.

the Bridal Chorus for the processional and the Wedding March for the recessional, creating a sense of symmetry and tradition.

Contemporary Classical Options

For couples looking for something slightly more modern while still maintaining a classical feel, consider these options:.

1. Gabriel Fauré’s Pavane: A sweet, ethereal and romantic piece that brings your French ceremony to life.
2. Edward Elgar’s Salut d’Amour: A tender, poignant lyric that evocatively conveys the spirit of love.
3. Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune: An airy, impressionistic piece to build a mystical atmosphere for your entrance.

Choosing the Right Piece for Your Ceremony

At the time of choosing classical wedding processional songs, please take into account the following: .

1. Venue acoustics: Some pieces may sound better in certain spaces. Consult with your musicians or venue coordinator for recommendations.
2. Ceremony length: Select one that can be changed to make it suitable for the length of your processional.
3. Personal significance: So, pick a song that really hits you and your significant other on an emotional level.
4. Instrumentation: Decide whether you prefer organ music, a string quartet, a solo cello, or another arrangement.

Just remember, your processional music is there to establish the emotional mood for the entirety of your ceremony. Get your time and browse the different options and imagine how each part could build your walk down the aisle.

You can select from these timeless classical wedding processional pieces and make a unforgettable and emotionally charged entrance that you, and your guests will remember forever. No matter what you choose, for the traditional majesty of The Bridal Chorus or for the sweet allure of Canon in D Major, your processional music will enhance the magic of your wedding day.