[Wedding Songs] Moving classical pieces to color your wedding ceremony and reception. Recommended classical music.

Prologue to Act I from Die Meistersinger von NürnbergRichard Wagner

Prelude to Act I from Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg

When it comes to iconic pieces that add splendor to weddings and receptions, many people probably think of the Prelude to Act I from Richard Wagner’s opera Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.

Premiered in Munich in June 1868, this work is distinguished by its rich orchestration.

The brilliant melodies woven by a variety of instruments—piccolo, flute, oboe, and more—create an atmosphere perfectly suited to celebrating the couple’s new beginning.

Reflecting its story set in 16th-century Nuremberg, the energetic music of the Meistersingers is introduced, conveying a deep affection for German culture.

Jesu, Joy of Man’s DesiringJ.S.Bach

Celtic Woman – Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” Lyrics/Translation [CC]

A serene and warmly glowing gem created by Baroque master Johann Sebastian Bach.

Composed in 1723 as a church cantata, this piece has long been cherished as a wedding classic, its rich lines and beautiful harmonies creating moments of pure bliss.

Its transparent melody gently envelops the hope and joy of couples embarking on a new chapter of life.

The piano arrangement by British pianist Myra Hess was published in 1926, after which it became performable in various instrumental settings and beloved by a wide audience.

It is perfect not only for solemn wedding ceremonies but also as background music for photo slideshows.

Ombra mai fuGeorg Friedrich Händel

Largo — Ombra mai fu (Handel) Händel – Largo - Ombra mai fu – pianomaedaful

This is a masterpiece whose elegant and delicate melody resonates in the heart.

Though it is a Baroque aria that sings of love for plants, it is also a gem that combines a gentle atmosphere with simple beauty.

Premiered by George Frideric Handel in London in April 1738, the piece has been featured in films such as Face/Off and Celebration, captivating many listeners.

It has been passed down through performances by renowned singers like Alfredo Kraus and Cecilia Bartoli, who have brought out its brilliance.

Bringing both serenity and emotion, this work is recommended as a heartwarming piece that gently colors life’s important moments, such as wedding ceremonies.

Procession to Elsa’s CathedralRichard Wagner

Wagner: Opera “Lohengrin”: Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral (Procession/Entrance) [Naxos Classical Curations #Fantasy]

A celebrated masterpiece long loved as a wedding standard, renowned for its majestic resonance and sacred atmosphere.

It is a piece performed within Richard Wagner’s grand opera Lohengrin, which premiered in Weimar in August 1850.

It begins with a delicate melody for flute and clarinet, gradually joined by horns and trombones to weave a rich harmony.

This work is also popular in wind band and orchestral arrangements, and is often used as background music in sacred scenes in films and television dramas.

It is an ideal choice for weddings that value a solemn mood, or for those who wish to adorn life’s important moments with splendor.

Amazing Graceamerika min’yō

André Rieu – Amazing Grace (4K)

A hymn inspired by salvation through God’s grace and filled with gratitude was composed in 1779 by a British clergyman.

Created by an author who transformed his life from a slave ship captain to a pastor, it conveys profound repentance.

With a simple yet moving melody, it has won love far beyond the realm of hymns.

It is performed in various styles, such as on bagpipes or a cappella, and in 2006 it was used as the theme song for a film depicting the author’s life.

It is popular at weddings and receptions as a fitting piece for solemn entrances and emotionally moving moments.

With its simple melody and deep spirituality, this work makes the important milestones of life all the more meaningful.

String Quartet No. 2, Movement 3: NocturneAlexander Borodin

Nocturne = Borodin

A masterpiece of chamber music imbued with sweet lyricism and rich emotional expression.

The sweet, heartrending melody played by the cello in its upper register at the opening forms the first theme, which is then handed over to the first violin.

Composed by Alexander Borodin in 1881, this work is known as a commemorative piece that embodies his deep love for his wife of twenty years, Ekaterina.

It was quoted in the musical Kismet as “And This Is My Beloved,” and it is used throughout Disney’s short film The Little Matchgirl, among other appearances, continuing to be loved around the world.

As a refined BGM choice for weddings and receptions, it will make those happy moments shine even more brightly.

CanonJohann Pachelbel

Pachelbel Canon en Re Mayor-RTVE (Adrian leaper) Orquesta sinfonica Navidad 2008

An elegant masterpiece whose eternally unfading, beautiful melody resonates in the heart—one that everyone has heard at least once.

Composed in the late 17th century by Johann Pachelbel, this work showcases a splendid harmony of three violins and basso continuo.

It became beloved worldwide following the 1970s recording by the orchestra conducted by Jean-François Paillard, and has since been widely used as background music in films and television dramas.

Its beautiful, canon-like lines that overlap one after another have made it a staple for wedding and reception entrances, adding a touch of splendor to the occasion.

Accompanying life’s most important moments and heightening feelings of happiness, this piece will be etched into memory along with heartwarming recollections.