Many people ask for specific pieces of music to be played during their funeral service and this can be anything from traditional hymns and organ music to something more contemporary.
As funerals become more personalised and unique, families are opting for personal favourite songs, often choosing light-hearted or humorous music to reflect a loved one’s personality.
A lot of people will outline their funeral wishes, including musical choices, in their will. It is important to check their wishes before making any decisions, and speak to family and friends to make sure the music chosen is what your loved one would really want.
Ways to personalise the funeral service with music:
- You could choose music that the family associates with the person, e.g. My Way, Angels, Wind Beneath My Wings, Simply the Best, Danny Boy, If Tomorrow Never Comes, You Say It Best. Perhaps you could choose music reflecting their hobbies or interests, e.g. TV theme tunes – Channel 4 horse racing, Match of the Day, Coronation Street. When choosing the piece of music for a funeral service, remember there may be some restrictions on language and themes if it is played in a religious setting. Whatever you decide, try and make the most of your choices as this will be a prominent memory for people attending the ceremony.
- You could choose to have live music played, e.g. bagpipes, buglers, guitars, jazz bands. A friend or family member may be musical and wish to perform a song or piece of music at the crematorium or funeral service. However, it is important that they feel comfortable doing this, as emotions can run very high on the day.
- Very often it is possible to hire a live musician or vocalist to perform at a funeral. By hiring a musician you have the advantage of speaking to an experienced performer about your loved ones wishes. On the day, the congregation can listen to and enjoy someone who is used to performing. If you are looking to hire a choir or larger ensemble do check the size of the venue first.
- Play music recorded by a family member. This is another way to allow someone to get involved in the farewell but will take the pressure off friends or family on the day if they have the chance to record the music in advance.
Most crematoriums will provide an organist; pre-recorded music from which you can choose; and a music system on which you can play music of your choice.
Your local Southern Co-op Funeral Director will be able to advise on the availability of these music options and make all the necessary arrangements for you.
FAQs
In conclusion, there are no strict rules when choosing funeral music. The main point is remembering your loved ones with the most appropriate tribute. So, think about your loved one, think about what music they liked and what music you think expresses who they were in the best possible way.
Can you choose what song to play at your funeral? ›
In conclusion, there are no strict rules when choosing funeral music. The main point is remembering your loved ones with the most appropriate tribute. So, think about your loved one, think about what music they liked and what music you think expresses who they were in the best possible way.
What is the most played song at a funeral? ›
Here are some of the most popular funeral songs:
- My Way – Frank Sinatra.
- Angels – Robbie Williams.
- The Best – Tina Turner.
- Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler.
- Always Look on the Bright Side of Life – Eric Idle (Monty Python's 'Life of Brian')
- Time to Say Goodbye – Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli.
How do you choose the right hymn for a funeral?
- Personal favourites. What about a favourite of the person whose life you are celebrating? ...
- 2. ' School assembly' hymns. ...
- Uplifting hymns. These are many hymns with rousing tunes. ...
- Hymns of comfort. ...
- Hymns about the journey of life. ...
- Hymns that everyone knows. ...
- Sing something else!
Music for Funerals Entrance. The entrance music sets the tone for the ceremony, evoking emotions of reverence and respect. Popular choices often include classical pieces like "Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber or "Ave Maria" by Franz Schubert.
How to select funeral music? ›
How to Choose Music for a Funeral
- Reflecting the Person's Life: Consider the deceased person's favorite genres, artists or specific songs that held significance in their life. ...
- Cultural and Religious Influences: ...
- Emotional Tone: ...
- Classical Music: ...
- Religious Hymns: ...
- Uplifting Songs:
A lot of people will outline their funeral wishes, including musical choices, in their will. It is important to check their wishes before making any decisions, and speak to family and friends to make sure the music chosen is what your loved one would really want.
What is the number one song requested at funerals? ›
The most requested song for a traditional funeral service is “Amazing Grace,” a Christian folk hymn written by English poet John Newton. Many find the message of forgiveness and redemption a beautiful tribute to the mercy of God.
What is the saddest song to play at a funeral? ›
Sad funeral songs
- I'll See You Again – Westlife.
- Over the Rainbow – Eva Cassidy.
- Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler.
- Nothing Compares to You – Sinead O'Connor.
- Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd.
Top 10 Hymns for a Funeral Ceremony
- Great is Thy Faithfulness (written by Thomas O. ...
- I Need Thee (written by Annie Hawks and Robert Lowry, 1872) ...
- Abide With Me (written by Henry Francis Lyte, 1847) ...
- 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus (written by Louisa Stead, 1882) ...
- Amazing Grace (written by John Newton, 1779)
One song particularly embodies what a “happy funeral song” sounds like to most people. This timeless gem is Louis Armstrong's “What a Wonderful World,” a poignant and uplifting melody that transcends cultural boundaries.
What is the cheerful hymn for a funeral? ›
Happy and uplifting hymns for a funeral include:
All Things Bright and Beautiful. Morning Has Broken. Lord of the Dance. Shine Jesus Shine.
What is the farewell song for a funeral? ›
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Best played to signify a long, happy life reaching its end, its calm melody is perfect for saying goodbye.
What is the classic song always played at funerals? ›
A timeless classic that's recognized and loved by countless people, Ave Maria might be the most popular classical song for funerals. Many believe it's the perfect piece for honoring loved ones, as it's an adaptation of the traditional Roman Catholic prayer.
What is a good song for a loved one who passed away? ›
Here are some of the most recommended sad songs for grief: Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven. Sarah Mclachlan - In The Arms of an Angel. The Beatles - Let It Be.
Can you request a song to be played at your funeral? ›
You should feel free to ask people to perform certain pieces of music, or you may leave the choice up to them.
Do you need permission to play a song at a funeral? ›
Put simply, whoever is responsible for arranging a funeral or service of remembrance is also responsible for copyright. Being part of a funeral group does not mean you're automatically covered. Each separate business, subsidiary or director must ensure that permission is in place to use any copyright works.
Can you use any song at a funeral? ›
Yes. From time-to-time, the three music licensing organizations have targeted funeral homes through regional and national compliance and enforcement programs. If music is played at a funeral home without a license, the funeral home could face a copyright infringement action.
