Dan WillisPlanning a funeral or memorial service is never easy, and choosing the right music can feel like a daunting task. However, music can play a vital role in setting the tone and bringing comfort to those in attendance.
This guide aims to help you understand how to hire the right musicians, whether you’re looking for a soloist to sing a favourite hymn or a string quartet to perform a moving classical piece. Keep reading for our 7 key points to take into consideration.
1. Understanding the Tone and Purpose of the Music
The music at a funeral or memorial service should reflect the personality, beliefs, or wishes of the person being remembered. Start by thinking about:
- Who was their favourite artist? Did they have a favourite song or genre?
- Are there any cultural or religious traditions to take into account?
- Is the service going to be formal, reflective, uplifting or spiritual?
In some cases, families opt for hymns or classical pieces, while others prefer more modern songs that had personal meaning.
Examples:
- Ave Maria performed by a vocalist and pianist
- A cellist playing The Swan by Saint-Saëns
- A favourite pop or rock song performed acoustically by a soloist or a group.
2. Choosing the Right Type of Musician
There’s ‘no one size fits all’ when it comes to live funeral music. Popular choices include:
1. Solo Vocalist
This option is perfect for performing hymns or requested songs and is often accompanied by piano, guitar, or backing track.
2. Instrumental Soloist (e.g. violinist, cellist, harpist)
This would be an elegant and understated option – perfect for moments of reflection or background music during the arrival and exit.
3. Small Ensemble or String Quartet
This would create a fuller sound, which would be suited to larger venues or for more formal services.
4. Pianist or Organist
This option is often provided at church services. If not, one can be hired to perform both traditional and contemporary music.
3. Consider the Venue
Before booking, check with the venue about:
- Sound limitations or amplification rules
- Space available for performers
- Access to a piano or power supply if needed
- Timings – for example, pre-service, during the ceremony, or as guests exit
If you’re hosting a memorial in a non-traditional venue (such as a garden, community hall or crematorium), it’s important to discuss logistics with the musicians early on.
4. Choose Experienced & Professional Performers
Funeral and memorial services require musicians who are:
- Punctual and self-sufficient
- Able to perform sensitively in emotional settings
- Flexible with last-minute changes
- Comfortable with religious or non-religious ceremonies
When you book through Encore Musicians, you’ll have access to both vetted, experienced professionals and our wonderful customer service team.
5. Discuss Music Choices in Advance
Speak with your chosen musicians about the pieces you’d like played, and when in the service they should be performed.
Typical points in a service for live music include:
- Arrival of guests (traditionally soft background music)
- Opening of the ceremony
- Reflection or quiet time
- As the coffin is carried or lowered
- Closing and exit
If requested with enough notice, many musicians would be happy to learn a new piece of music.
6. Budget and Booking
Fees will vary depending on the number of musicians, location, and length of performance. As a rough guide:
- Soloists: £200–£300
- Instrumental duos: £300–£600
- String quartets or small ensembles: £600+
When booking with Encore Musicians, you can view prices up front, read reviews, and communicate directly with performers.
7. Last-Minute Bookings
It’s not uncommon to be arranging music at short notice. Encore has musicians across the UK who can often step in with 24-48 hours’ notice. If you’re under pressure, we can help source someone quickly who is professional, prepared, and respectful of the occasion.
Live music offers a deeply personal way to honour someone’s memory. It brings beauty and reflection to a difficult day, and helps to bring people together in shared remembrance.
If you’re unsure where to start, the team at Encore Musicians can guide you through the process and connect you with the right musician for your needs. Whether it’s a solo violinist, a gospel singer, or a classical pianist – the right music can bring peace, connection, and comfort.
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