Ceremonies
Live Musicians
for your ceremony
Live music brings a presence to a ceremony that recorded music simply cannot duplicate.
A solo instrumentalist can create an intimate atmosphere, while a duo, trio or classical ensemble can give the ceremony a fuller and more formal sound.
Depending on the style you envision, ceremony music may feature violin, cello, flute, guitar, keyboard or a combination of instruments.
We can help you choose an ensemble that suits your venue, your musical preferences and the scale of the ceremony.
Prelude Music
as Guests Arrive
The ceremony experience begins before the processional.
Prelude music welcomes guests, establishes the mood and creates a natural transition from arrival and conversation to the ceremony itself.
Classical selections can create an elegant, timeless atmosphere. Acoustic interpretations of contemporary songs can feel warm and personal. Jazz standards, romantic favorites or culturally meaningful music can set an entirely different tone.
The goal is to create an environment that already feels intentional before the first person walks down the aisle.
Processional Music
Few musical moments are as closely connected to memory as a processional.
Some couples immediately picture Pachelbel’s Canon in D, the Bridal Chorus or another traditional selection. Others hear a favorite Beatles song, a contemporary love song, an instrumental arrangement or something with personal meaning.
There is no requirement that a processional sound a particular way.
We help coordinate music for the entrance of family members, attendants, the wedding party and the final processional so that each entrance flows naturally into the next.
Religious & Cultural
ceremony music
Music can also play an important role in honoring family traditions, faith and cultural heritage.
Ariel musicians have experience with religious ceremony music and repertoire for Jewish weddings, along with classical and contemporary selections that can be incorporated into interfaith and personalized ceremonies.
We work with you to understand the musical requirements of the ceremony and coordinate selections with your officiant or venue when appropriate.
The result should feel respectful, natural and genuinely connected to the people taking part.
The Recessional
Then comes the moment when everything changes. The vows have been mad. The ceremony is complete. The couple turns toward everyone they love — and the recessional begins.
This is often the first musical moment that feels openly celebratory.
It might be classical and triumphant, bright and contemporary, romantic, playful or completely unexpected.
A well-chosen recessional sends everyone into the next part of the day with exactly the right energy.
Outdoor Ceremony
music and sound
Outdoor ceremonies can be extraordinary, but they require different planning than music performed inside a ballroom or place of worship.
The location, guest seating, distance between musicians and the ceremony area, available electricity and surrounding environment can all affect how music and spoken words carry.
We can help plan the musical setup and sound requirements for the space so the ceremony can be heard clearly without losing the intimacy of the setting.
