What to Consider When Choosing Music for a Funeral or Memorial
A very important part of any funeral or memorial is the music. The right music can lighten the mood, add more gravity to the situation, or help people with healing. That is why taking the time to choose the right music is vital for planning a funeral. It can sometimes be a daunting prospect, especially when a loved one did not leave behind any indication of what he or she wanted. We have some things to keep in mind when choosing music for any funeral or memorial.
Desired Mood
If you and your family want a somber funeral, then choosing more sedate and religious pieces can be a great idea. Some people might prefer a more light-hearted funeral to help the family feel less grief and that is when lighter pieces can come in handy. Favorite pieces the loved one enjoyed or even popular songs, can bring just the right kind of mood to the funeral or memorial.
Religious or Not?
If your loved one was religious, consider putting together a grouping of hymns and other religious tunes. Some favorites include “Amazing Grace,” “All Things Bright and Beautiful,” and many more. If the person was not religious, then it can feel strange to have hymns during the memorial or funeral. In that case, consider asking the funeral home for assistance. A Delmar, NY funeral home will always be more than happy to help.
Instrumental or Singing
Another thing to consider is whether to have the music be instrumental or to have a singer. This depends on personal preference. Some people prefer to have soothing background music, which can be successfully done with instruments, while others want the service to pause so that all eyes are on the singer and the message of the song they are performing. For some, words of hymns can be uplifting while for others they can intensify the grief so keep that in mind when making a decision.
Personality of Deceased
Probably the most important aspect to consider when choosing music for a funeral is the personality of your loved one. If your loved one was very easy-going and always happy, then choosing somber music can feel wrong. Start with pieces that they enjoyed throughout their life and choose the most appropriate ones for the memorial or funeral. By considering the personality of the person, you can ensure that the people who come to the funeral feel the person’s presence.
Choosing music for the funeral of a loved one can be challenging because you will be in the middle of the grieving process. By keeping these suggestions in mind, the process will be easier for you and your family. Start with simple tasks, like deciding whether or not to have religious music, and go from there. If you need assistance, funeral homes will gladly point you the right way. Get started by contacting McVeigh Funeral Home, Inc. at 208 N Allen St, Albany, NY 12206. Call (518) 489-0188.
