Planning Music for a Funeral, Memorial Service or Celebration of Life
Sharon Planer, Minnesota Pianist
The music for your loved one’s service can be a wonderful way to portray their uniqueness and individuality.
- What songs or styles of music were special to your loved one?
- What songs reflect their uniqueness?
- What type of music will bring comfort to the family?
Pondering these questions can start you in the right music direction.
If you do not have much time to plan the service, it can be difficult to thoughtfully prepare the music. Do not hesitate to ask your funeral home or officiate for help in planning the music. They can also provide you with names of musicians and music resources. Your musician should be able to offer you suggestions and also welcome your requests. Your musician will want to put together a repertoire to reflect the type of atmosphere you wish to create. The music can be as meditative and reflective or upbeat and celebratory as you wish.
If you do not have the time or ambition to discuss song selections with your musician, your funeral home or officiate can communicate your wishes to the musician.
If your service is being held in a house of worship or a religious institution, you will want to confirm that your music wishes will be honored. Some religious venues and religious leaders may not be able to accommodate all styles of service or song selections.
If you wish to use pre-recorded music, your funeral home or place of worship may have such music available or you can put together your own mix of songs.
If you wish to have ‘live’ music, there are many wonderful options to consider. A talented vocalist can speak straight to the heart through the power of words and music. Solo instrumental music creates a beautiful atmosphere, such as piano, harp, flute, guitar, violin, ensembles and even bands.
Remember, the music can be as unique as the person that is being honored!