Which music is appropriate? — Mike Warren Celebrant (2024)

FAQs

Which music is appropriate? — Mike Warren Celebrant? ›

Some families opt for classical music and hymns, giving the ceremony a more traditional feel; inspiring calm, grandeur and reflective thinking. Whereas, others prefer more popular music tracks, giving it a contemporary feel; reflecting the musical tastes of the person whose life you are celebrating.

Bach: Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring. The third piece in this organ performance tutorial series is Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring by J.S. Bach. It's a useful and relatively gentle piece that's popular for weddings, perhaps at the signing of the registers, but could equally well be used for memorial services.

2. Panis Angelicus. Can be a solo or choir piece, but we like it best as a male/female duet. The two overlapping voices are peaceful, harmonious and comforting, with moments of spine-tingling emotion.

Every year, it is performed at the Cenotaph in Whitehall for the annual National Service of Remembrance, in which we remember those in British service who lost their lives in the two world wars and subsequent conflicts. The sombre nature of this variation means it is also a widely popular choice for funerals.

In a way you might say that they both sum up my experience of life and I thought, “Perhaps I should have 'Both Sides Now' played at my funeral?” No, that's not morbid or unhealthy.

The lyrics praise Jesus, marking his great characteristics, and the singer's desire for the Almighty.

The "Pie Jesus" section of Gabriel Faure's Requiem is gorgeously sorrowful and a lovely selection for large church funerals.

First and foremost, dress appropriately. This means no jeans, shorts, or tank tops. Instead, opt for dark, conservative clothing. Women should avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy, and men should make sure their clothing is clean and wrinkle-free.

Let's get this out of the way first: Amazing Grace is one of the most popular songs that you'll hear played at funerals in America, especially Catholic funerals.

What is the #1 song for 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.

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.

We also included Alison Krauss' “Down to the River to Pray”, “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion, “A Song For Mama” by Boyz II Men, “You Can't Loose Me” by Faith Hill, You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban and “Wind Beneath my Wings” by Bette Midler.

"'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong and 'Time to Say Goodbye' by Andrea Bocelli are timeless choices, while 'Supermarket Flowers' by Ed Sheeran and 'Wind Beneath My Wings' by Bette Midler also hold a special place in people's hearts, as they beautifully capture the essence of love and loss.

"'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong and 'Time to Say Goodbye' by Andrea Bocelli are timeless choices, while 'Supermarket Flowers' by Ed Sheeran and 'Wind Beneath My Wings' by Bette Midler also hold a special place in people's hearts, as they beautifully capture the essence of love and loss.

Amazing Grace

You've likely heard it yourself played either during the entrance at the beginning of a funeral or at the processional at the end, but there are no hard and fast rules for when it can appear.