The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Music Guide: Answers to Your Top Questions
Planning your wedding ceremony music can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! As the founder of Aloha Erica Music, I’ve helped countless couples create the perfect soundtrack for their big day. Below, I answer the most common questions couples have about selecting their wedding ceremony music, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
General Questions About Wedding Ceremony Music
1. How many songs do we need for our ceremony?
Most wedding ceremonies require seven to ten songs, depending on the format. These typically include:
Prelude Music: 15-30 minutes of background wedding ceremony prelude music as guests arrive
Processional: One song for the wedding party and one for the bride/groom’s entrance (wedding ceremony entrance music)
Interlude: Optional song during unity ceremonies or readings
Recessional: A song for the grand exit (wedding ceremony exit music)
Postlude: Background wedding music after ceremony as guests leave
2. What are the key moments that need music?
The most important moments to have music include:
Guest Arrival (Prelude): Creates a welcoming atmosphere with wedding ceremony prelude music
Processional: Sets the tone for the wedding ceremony entrance music
Special Moments: Unity candle, handfasting, readings, or a prayer
Recessional: Celebrates your newlywed moment with wedding ceremony songs recessional
3. How long should each song be?
Processional and recessional songs typically last 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on the size of your wedding party. Most musicians adjust the song length to fit the moment.
4. Do we need live music or should we use a playlist?
Live wedding ceremony live music adds elegance and emotional depth that a playlist just can’t match. Plus, live musicians can adjust timing and enhance the experience based on the moment’s energy.
5. Can we mix live music with recorded songs?
Absolutely! Many couples opt for live music during the ceremony and recorded music for other parts of the day.
Choosing the Right Songs
6. Can we choose any song, or do we need to stick to traditional wedding music?
You can choose any song that feels meaningful to you! Whether it’s classical, pop, indie, or movie soundtracks, it’s all about making the ceremony feel personal.
7. What are the most popular wedding ceremony songs?
Some timeless favorites include:
Wedding Ceremony Entrance Songs for Parents: “What a Wonderful World” (Louis Armstrong), “You Raise Me Up” (Josh Groban)
Processional: “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (Elvis Presley), “A Thousand Years” (Christina Perri), great wedding ceremony songs for bridesmaids or for the bride’s processional
Recessional: “Here Comes the Sun” (The Beatles), “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” (Stevie Wonder), great wedding ceremony songs recessional
Unique Choices: “Marry Me” (Train), “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” (Israel Kamakawiwo’ole)
8. Can we request a song that’s not on your repertoire?
Yes! If there’s a special song that isn’t in my repertoire, I can learn it just for your wedding (just let me know in advance!). I often create unique acoustic renditions of songs for couples for their ceremony songs and their first dance. Having songs that truly match your story and are one-in-a-lifetime performances create a lasting memory.
9. How do we make sure our song choices reflect our love story?
Think about:
Songs from your first date or proposal
Lyrics that make you think of your relationship
Melodies that make you feel something special
🎵 Need help picking the perfect song? I created the Wedding Song Quiz to find the best match based on your relationship’s unique themes!
10. Can we use a non-traditional song for the processional or recessional?
Definitely! If you want to walk down the aisle to a rock song, a movie theme, or a folk tune, go for it! It’s your day.
Logistics & Sound Setup
11. Do we need to provide a sound system, or do you bring your own?
A professional wedding musician should provide their own high-quality sound system to ensure the best audio experience for your wedding ceremony live music.
I provide a professional sound system that ensures crystal-clear music for your ceremony.
12. Will the music be loud enough for everyone to hear?
A professional wedding musician will have experience balancing sound levels so that all guests, from front to back, can hear clearly without it being overpowering.
Yes! I use high-quality equipment to make sure guests can hear the music clearly, even in outdoor settings.
13. Do you need access to power, or can you perform acoustically?
Some musicians require a power source, while others use battery-powered or acoustic setups to accommodate all venues.
I can do both! If there’s no power source, I have battery-powered equipment to ensure smooth performances anywhere.
14. How early do you arrive to set up?
Professional musicians should arrive early enough to set up, sound check, and ensure everything runs smoothly before the ceremony starts.
I typically arrive 90-120 minutes before the ceremony to set up and sound check.
15. What happens if it rains (for outdoor weddings)?
Experienced wedding musicians will have a contingency plan for rain, whether it’s protective gear for their equipment or alternative setups.
I bring weatherproof covers for my equipment, but it’s best to have a backup plan like a tent or indoor option.
Hiring a Wedding Musician
16. How much does live wedding ceremony music cost?
Pricing depends on location, musician experience, and performance length. Most solo musicians will range from a few hundred dollars for a music student or beginner musician, to $10K for the leading solo wedding ceremony musicians in the United States.
My ceremony packages start at $750 which is within the range of the leading solo wedding ceremony musicians in Florida. My packages for weddings across the country are well below the average rate for traveling wedding ceremony musicians starting at $1,800. This includes custom song selections, equipment, and a professional performance you’ll never forget.
17. Do you take song requests on the day of the wedding?
I prepare a setlist in advance, but if time allows, I can accommodate simple requests, especially for those impromptu moments where a guest makes a request during cocktail hour. I’m always happy to perform a song as long as it’s within my repertoire so I can maintain the highest standard of music performance.
18. Can you also play for cocktail hour or reception?
Hiring your ceremony musician for your cocktail hour or dinner reception is often a popular choice. Yes! Many couples book me for ceremony + cocktail hour or a full reception package. My most popular package is the Golden Hour package which includes music for your ceremony and cocktail hour. More details can be found here.
19. Do you take breaks during the ceremony?
No breaks during the ceremony itself. If you book a package that covers music for multiple hours, then most musicians build in breaks where music will be played over their system in the meantime. I’ll schedule short breaks as needed throughout a performance that exceeds 2 hours.
20. What happens if you’re sick or can’t make it?
It’s always important to know what policies your wedding musician has in their contract. Most musicians will provide an option to reschedule the performance, have a professional musician they’re connected to take their place, or at least provide a refund of some amount. I have a backup network of professional musicians who can step in if needed (though I’ve never had to cancel a wedding! and provide an option to reschedule when possible).
Ready to Check If Your Date’s Available?
Inquire for Unforgettable Live Wedding Ceremony Music with Aloha Erica
I’d love to help create the perfect musical ambiance for your wedding ceremony music! Get in touch to check availability, discuss your song ideas, and get started on making your wedding ceremony music unforgettable.
👉 Inquire for a Custom Quote - https://www.alohaerica.com/inquire
📅 Book a Consultation - https://alohaerica.hbportal.co/schedule/65cf5d68ffc24c0027beb877
📩 Email Me: erica@alohaerica.com
📱 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alohaericamusic/
Let’s make your love story sound amazing! 🎶💕