“Love is knowing that even when you are alone, you will never be truly alone again”
Victor Hugo, Les Miserables
It is increasingly popular to hold weddings on alternative premises, like hotels and country clubs. To play for your special day in these locations in East Sussex, Richard is a pianist, and can play at your venue (if they have one) or can provide a digital keyboard which can replicate the sound of a traditional organ, grand piano or a range of other classical, orchestral or modern sounds.
The important thing is that you select music which is special to you.
A civil ceremony has to be non-religious, and you will generally enjoy music at these points:-
Pre-Service
Richard will generally play background music for up to thirty minutes or so before your ceremony is due to begin. Your guests may be travelling from some distance and will be keen to avoid a last-minute rush. Music at this point is there to create an atmosphere of expectation, mingled with the conversations of your guests as they gather.
It should not be seen as a recital, and you should remember that the bridal party will not be present for this part of the service! Some couples choose a favourite piece or two for this part of the service which will generally be played just before the service is due to start.
The Entrance
One of the most important moments of the whole day is the arrival of the Bride and her party. Although this music can be whatever you wish generally it is best if it is something stirring, which will create a clear start to the service.
Popular choices are:
- ‘The Prince of Denmark’s March’ – Jeremiah Clarke (known as the Trumpet Voluntary)
- ‘Bridal March from Lohengrin’ – Wagner
If you prefer a less triumphant entrance a popular choice is Pachelbel Canon in D
The Signing of the Register
Whilst the newly-weds sign the Register to make everything official, and generally have a few photos taken, there is an opportunity to enjoy a couple of pieces of music. Generally this will be something fairly gentle so as not to disturb the atmosphere of the service. Again, this can be a traditional choice or maybe a personal favourite. Something suitable for this time includes:
- Canon in D – Pachelbel
- O Mio Babbino Caro – Puccini
- Air on a G String – Bach
The Recessional
This piece of music is the last memory of the ceremony and is played while the Bridal party walks back down the aisle between their guests. Something bright and cheerful is often desirable. Favourite choices include:
- Mendelssohn’s Wedding March
- Widor’s Toccata from the Fifth Symphony
- Charpentier’s Prelude to Te Deum
Slightly more unusual items that Richard has played over the years include a selection of film tunes from John Williams films, the theme tune from Love Actually and selections from Disney films.
Remember that, above all, it is your choice to make your ceremony personal to you. Richard will do his best to help and advise on the possibilities, particularly to make sure that your preference will work with the instrument that is available. So if you’re planning your civil ceremony in East Sussex, and need to book a pianist, get in touch.
Get in Touch
If you’re planning a Civil Ceremony in East Sussex and you’d like a pianist; you’re more than welcome contact Richard via email and book him for your event here.