Song Selections (click on the links to hear excerpts)
The selections are played on solo guitar or by ensemble as noted.
"Andantino," by Ferdinando Carulli, exemplifies a “classical period” piece for the couple seeking traditional prelude music. Solo Guitar
"Annie’s Song," by John Denver, could be played as prelude or processional music. Its folk-like melody was brought to prominence on flute by internationally known flutist James Galway and has become a wedding standard. Flute and Guitar
"Ave Maria," by Franz Schubert, sometimes chosen by couples seeking a reflective moment in their wedding ceremony, including receiving Communion, can also be incorporated in the prelude selections. Solo Guitar
The "Canon in D," by Johann Pachelbel, combining an almost heavenly chord pattern with a melody that seems to float, is currently the most requested processional piece. Solo Guitar Flute and Guitar
"Can't Help Falling in Love," by George Weiss, Hugo Peretti, and Luigi Creatore, is a love song that can be played instrumentally during the prelude or sung midway through the ceremony. It has been recorded by many artists, including Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, U2, and Andrea Bocelli. Flute and Guitar
"Here Comes the Bride," or “Bridal Chorus,” from the opera Lohengrin, by Richard Wagner, is a perfect processional for the bride seeking a more traditional entrance. Solo Guitar
"In My Life," by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, a popular song with strong romantic sentiments and classical music elements, could be part of the wedding ceremony, prelude, or reception. It is sung here by Janet Rayor. It could also be performed as a guitar solo. Voice and Guitar
"Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring," from Cantata 147 by Johann Sebastian Bach, can perform different functions in a wedding service. Some couples request its inclusion in a religious prelude. Others request it to be used for the procession of the bridesmaids and ushers. Still others choose it for the bride’s processional. “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” can be played at different speeds to suit its placement. Solo Guitar
"Ode to Joy," from Symphony No. 9 by Ludwig Van Beethoven, works well as an inspiring recessional. In addition, this work is adaptable for the processional or works well in the prelude. This particular arrangement features the melody with a flowing accompaniment. Solo Guitar
"Sabbath Prayer," from Fiddler on the Roof, by Sheldon Harnick and Jerry Bock, is a song about marriage from the point of view of the bride’s and bridegroom’s parents. It is a bit sad and mournful, but full of beautiful sentiments. It is sung here by Janet Rayor. Solo Guitar and Voice
"Summertime," from the opera Porgy and Bess, by Dubose Heyward and George Gershwin, is often requested by bridal couples seeking a bluesy jazz flavor to their prelude music. This tune can also be included as post-ceremonial reception music. Solo Guitar
"Trumpet Voluntary," by Jeremiah Clarke, is best used for the bridal recessional. Its fanfare-like figures announce the newly wedded couple. Solo Guitar
"Waltz," by Ferdinando Carulli, is another example of an early nineteenth-century prelude. Moods can be mixed within the prelude to include “classical” and more popular music. Solo Guitar Guitar and Bass
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