Popular Music Choices for Funerals
Music is a powerful element in any funeral service, offering a way to express emotions, honour memories, and bring comfort. In this article we explore some popular music choices for
Music is often intrinsic to any celebration, and funerals are no exception. Today, songs from right across the musical spectrum are heard at funerals – everything from Beethoven to the Beatles and Metallica to Mozart.
For help selecting music or for assistance with funeral personalisation, please call our 24 Hour Funeral Advice Line.
Music is an essential element of every culture, and it plays a vital role in a funeral service.
As well as helping to set the tone of the event, music can help to discharge and regulate emotions, as well as honouring the person who has died through personalised choice of music.
Music can help us to express things that words alone cannot convey, and it can help give us space to reflect and mourn during the ceremony and between rituals.
How many songs are played and whether you opt for live music or recorded generally comes down to your own preferences and the number of and type of services you are having. Music is often played during an audio visual presentation, such as our Celebrated Moments video, and at the beginning and end of the service, although it’s not uncommon to have music playing between hymns, during burial or cremation, and at other moments throughout the service.
Recognising the importance of music at funerals and life celebrations, Tobin Brothers has developed an extensive Recorded Music Library of more than 8,000 titles to help families choose a special song, hymn or piece of music for the service. Please click the button below to view our extensive music library.
Speak to your Funeral Planner if you have a song in mind that isn’t featured in this library. Please make sure you have the title of the artist and the song so that we are able to find it for you.
Of course, if you would prefer to have live music we are happy to organise this also. If you would like to incorporate live music into a funeral, let your Funeral Planner know today.
We have access to a vast range of performers, and are able to facilitate any artist or band of your choosing for you.
Just some of the options we can assist you with include:
For many families a funeral is a significant life event. The choices made at the time of arranging a funeral can help to truly celebrate the life of your loved one and create a lasting memory.
If you need help with funeral arrangements or funeral personalisation, speak to one of our Funeral Planners who will guide you through the process.
Music can provide comfort, solace, and a means of expressing emotions during a funeral. It helps create a meaningful and personal atmosphere for both the departed and the attendees.
Funeral music can range from hymns and classical compositions to contemporary songs that hold special meaning for the deceased or their loved ones. The choice is highly personal and can reflect the individual's life and preferences.
To choose the right music, consider the deceased's musical tastes and any specific requests they may have made. You can also consult with a funeral director or clergy for recommendations.
The ‘right music’ changes from individual to individual, and while classical music or jazz might be best suited to some, others might be better remembered with a football theme song or rock anthem. It just depends on the individual and the family.
Yes, live musicians such as soloists, choirs, or instrumentalists can be a beautiful addition to a funeral service. They can perform classical pieces or personal favourites, and provide background music or be a focal point.
Talk to your Funeral Planner today if you’d like to have live music at a funeral.
Recorded music is a common and practical choice. You can create a playlist of songs that were significant to your loved one or hold special meaning for the family.
It’s up to you entirely what songs you choose and when they are played throughout the ceremony.
We have a library of over 8,000 songs for you to choose from, but if you can’t find the one you are after in our library, let us know the artist and version you are after, and we can organise it for you.
While there are no strict rules, it's advisable to choose music that is respectful and in line with the atmosphere of the service.
Avoid songs with explicit or inappropriate content and be cautious with ‘in-jokes’ or choices that could be seen as offensive, as these can be poorly received by others who are grieving and aren’t ‘in on the joke’.
The number of songs can vary, but a typical funeral service may include three to five songs. You can have music at the beginning, during, and at the end of the service.
It's possible to include non-religious music in a religious service, as long as it is respectful and aligns with the overall tone of the service.
Discuss your choices with your funeral planner and/or the clergy conducting the service.
You can always use bands or artists that you know or reach out to professional musicians or vocalists who specialise in performing at funerals.
Otherwise, speak with your Funeral Planner who can help recommend or source a suitable performer for you.
We have a diverse network of performers we use frequently who we have come to know and trust, and can provide music of any genre for you.
Absolutely, you can request a specific song that holds meaning for you and your loved one.
If your song isn’t included in our list of over 8,000 titles, then let your Funeral Planner know the exact version you’re after and we will attempt to source it for you.
We cannot download songs from YouTube, Spotify or other streaming services but if you are able to provide a good quality mp3 version of your preferred music, we should be able to play it for you.
Please speak with your Funeral Planner if you have a specific piece of music in mind.
We can provide suggestions and guidance on creating a meaningful playlist. Feel free to contact us for assistance and recommendations.
Yes, you can use pre-recorded music at a graveside service, but it's important to ensure you have the necessary equipment for playback and that the volume is appropriate for the location.
Speak to your Funeral Planner for more information about this.
Yes, you can use pre-recorded music at a cremation service, however, like burials, it's important to ensure you have the necessary equipment for playback and that the volume is appropriate for the location.
Speak to your Funeral Planner for more information about this.
If you have any further questions or need assistance in selecting funeral music, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help you create a meaningful and respectful tribute to your loved one.
Music is a powerful element in any funeral service, offering a way to express emotions, honour memories, and bring comfort. In this article we explore some popular music choices for
For over 90 years, Tobin Brothers Funerals have been helping families. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’re here for you.
Choosing the right funeral music can be a touching tribute to your loved one. We help you figure out what is best for you.
If it’s legal, it’s possible. Let us help you create a service that truly reflects and celebrates the life of your loved one.
The first funeral conducted by Tobin Brothers Funerals was for Ena Margaret Price in 1934. In its first year, the company conducted 53 funerals and after the payment of creditors and the collection of debts, it made a modest profit.