Special Occasion

The Best Songs to Learn for Weddings, Graduations, Funerals, & More

Take a look at some of the music that you can learn for these different occasions.

Musicnotes

• 8 min read
The Best Songs to Learn for Weddings, Graduations, Funerals, & More

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Music taps into the emotions we feel throughout our lives, so it makes sense that music is a critical part of our biggest moments. There are iconic compositions we've all learned to associate with weddings, graduations, funerals and other big events, and even more songs that would fit in perfectly. Take a look at some of the songs that fit the bill for these special occasions and how you can learn how to play them for your next big moment.

Common Instruments for Special Event Songs

Many of the most iconic songs for events such as weddings and graduations don't have lyrics that are well-known, and some have no lyrics at all, meaning you'll have to rely on an instrument to play the composition. There are a few different instruments that tend to show up when it's time to play at one of these events.

At the top of the list are the guitar, the violin and the piano. Each brings a different feel to a party, so consider the tone you want to set as you pick an instrument for live entertainment at your event.

Guitar

Guitars have become a common sight at happy events and for good reason. Although they can be associated with rock'n'roll and heavy metal, guitars can also make beautiful and soft acoustic music. They are perfect for romantic occasions such as weddings. Guitars are also good for upbeat songs, making them nice for happy get-togethers such as graduation parties and birthdays.

Musicians also like to bring guitars to special occasions because they are easily portable. The instrument is lightweight, so all you need is a proper case to carry it from space to space and a stool to sit on as you play.

Violin

The violin is another easily portable instrument that tends to turn up at special occasions, especially at more formal events. This instrument is elegant and sophisticated, so it fits well at weddings and even funerals.

With a violin, you also get the benefit of being able to play a wide variety of genres. Violins are utilized in classical music, jazz and folk music. No matter what style the audience wants, you can use the violin to play something that will please the crowd.

Piano

One of the most classic choices to play songs for funerals, weddings or other precious moments is the piano. Live piano music can be very formal so it's very appropriate for important situations. At the same time, piano music can be lively and fun, so you don't have to limit yourself on the types of events you use a piano for. While toting a piano around is not practical, many venues will have one available, and today’s lightweight electric pianos can produce the same classic musical quality.

The beauty of all these instruments is that they can be played alone or as part of ensembles. You have the flexibility to create the perfect atmosphere with music when you are planning songs for funerals, weddings, graduations and birthdays.

Playing Live at Events

If you're planning to play any instrument live at an event, there are some things to keep in mind to make sure everything goes well:

  • Choose the right music: Consider the type of event and the audience when picking music to perform. Choose songs that are appropriate for the occasion and that will appeal to the audience.
  • Practice beforehand: The more you practice your songs, the more comfortable and confident you will feel when playing them live. Practice your parts thoroughly and consider practicing with other musicians if you are playing as part of an ensemble.
  • Coordinate with event planners: Make sure to communicate with event planners or organizers ahead of time to ensure that you have all the necessary information, such as the schedule, setlist, and equipment needs.
  • Test the sound system: Before the event, test the sound system if possible and make sure that everything is working properly. Make any necessary adjustments so that the music sounds great in the venue. Pay special attention to base levels since it can be easy for the base to sound distorted when played at a loud volume.
  • Be flexible: Be prepared to adapt to changes in the schedule or other unforeseen circumstances. Stay flexible and work with event planners to ensure that the music enhances the overall experience.

Songs for Weddings

When it comes to weddings, music plays a big role in the event. From the famous "Wedding March" that accompanies the bride down the aisle to the first dance for the new couple, music helps everyone enjoy the special day.

For the guests and wedding party, the right songs to play at wedding ceremonies will help everyone relax and embrace the romance of the day. Weddings are beautiful, but you often have groups of people together who may not know each other well or see each other often. The best songs to play at a wedding are the ones that serve as icebreakers, allowing everyone to feel comfortable and mingle.

Music at a wedding is also extremely important for the bride and groom. As they look back on their ceremony and reception, the music played will help bring back memories. That's especially true if they chose a sentimental song for their first dance. That song will forever be a sign of their love.

Great music in the reception also sets the tone for the guests. Light and upbeat music maintains a joyful atmosphere and helps everyone have a good time.

What Are the Best Songs to Play at a Wedding?

If you're looking for ideas of songs to play at a wedding, here are few to start learning:

These hits can take you from the waiting period before the ceremony to the first dance and into the reception.

Songs for Graduation Parties

When you create a graduation songs list, it's all about creating a celebratory mood. Whether the graduate has just completed high school, college or another advanced degree, it's a moment that is filled with joy and pride and the music should match.

Because graduation is often a pivotal moment, songs for graduations can be a bit sentimental. The music should bring back memories of all the big events a scholar has had on their path to this achievement and make them hopeful for the future.

What Are the Best Songs to Play at Graduation?

Since graduation party songs are all about emotion, you can pick from a wide range of genres and styles. Here are a few to learn to play for this sentimental occasion:

These songs share a feeling that you should treasure what you've had in the past while embracing new opportunities in the future.

Songs for Funerals

Of all the special occasions we share, funerals tend to bring some of the strongest emotions. It is hard to lose someone you cared about and the ceremony of a funeral can help bring closure and comfort to friends and family.

With such heavy emotions in the atmosphere, it makes sense that the music tends to be very somber. The songs played in this moment are meant to offer a calming feeling while also helping mourners express their emotions and honor the deceased.

Some funerals may have music that is relevant to a specific religious ceremony or spiritual belief. Others may feature songs that had a specific meaning for the person who has passed away. In either case, the best songs to play at funeral ceremonies are the ones that bring mourners together and provide a sense of shared experience.

What Are the Best Songs to Play at a Funeral?

Often, spiritual hymns take center stage at funerals, but secular music that is somber and evokes deep emotion is also appropriate. Check out these options to get started:

As you can see, there is a variety of music that could be appropriate for a funeral, either for the formal ceremony or for the reception afterward. Look for songs that are significant to the family.

Songs for Birthdays

Music is an essential part of many birthday parties. It can help set the tone for the celebration and create a fun and festive atmosphere. Everyone can join in on the classic "Birthday Song" (which is an excellent song to learn to play on the piano) and the rest of the party can be filled with music that the guest of honor loves.

At a birthday party, you want songs that will inspire everyone to get up and have fun. Keep the tempo a bit faster and choose songs with fun lyrics that everyone knows. You can also have songs that are special to the birthday honoree to make them feel even more special on their day. It's nice to have songs from a variety of genres to keep everyone engaged.

When it comes to birthdays, the best songs for parties will largely depend on the age of the people attending the party. For a child's birthday, you want to avoid music that is too mature. On the other hand, someone celebrating a 30th birthday may not enjoy children's songs. You can create a setlist that will fit the occasion and help everyone have a good time.

What Are the Best Songs for Birthday Parties?

As you assemble your birthday party music list, consider learning a few of these tunes to play. Many work well on a guitar or piano so they are great for live entertainment:

These are good options to get the party started and to keep all of your guests engaged and having a good time.

Use Music to Make Your Events Extra Special

Music is tied to our emotions and memories, so it's not surprising that the right songs at the right moments can create an experience that will stay in people's minds for years to come. There are so many songs that can bring people together, help them mourn, mark monumental occasions and offer a path to connection for groups.

Choosing the right music for your special days is all about tapping into the sentiments that matter most to you. Whether you choose to bring in live music with a guitar, violin or piano or you get a band or DJ to play the songs you love, you will elevate your events with the right musical experience for your guests. Start learning how to play some of the songs that are close to your heart so you can share them at your next big event.