What music will be played at the royal wedding? Alive Network reveal all, with tips on how you can recreate your own Harry and Meghan-inspired ceremony
The royal wedding will soon be upon us and we’ve had our first sighting of Harry and Meghan’s music-filled ceremony plans. Whether you’re looking for artists to plan your own Windsor-themed ceremony, or just want some inspiration, we’ve found what you need to recreate the regal feel without the royal price tag.
Choir
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- A choir with ancient roots, the Choir of St George’s Chapel.
Your way:
Often with experience of London’s West End, a choir can wow your guests with or without instrumental accompaniment or backing tracks, and in a range of ensembles perfect for whatever size of wedding you’re planning. They can perform traditional choral hymns and classic contemporary hits from the fifties, right up to modern day tracks. And whether you choose the a capella stylings of a classical vocal ensemble singing hymns to accompany your ceremony, a modern or traditional barbershop group, or want to surprise your lunchtime guests with a flashmob show of singing waiters during dessert, a choir will provide big emotions on your big day.
Cellist
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- Virtuoso cellist, and winner of the BBC’s Young Musician 2016, Sheku Kanneh-Mason.
Your way:
The cello is thought to be the closest instrument to the human voice; so if you want vibrant music that sings to your heart, this is it. Like Harry and Meghan’s cellist, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, most cellists are adaptable, and can happily perform solo, duo, as part of a string quartet or among other ensembles. They can turn their bows from powerful classical music to your fave contemporary indie tracks. Stunning.
Gospel choir
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- Gospel choir, The Kingdom Choir, led by conductor Karen Gibson.
Your way:
If you want a performance that’s soulful and heartfelt, a gospel choir can deliver to the max. Think amazing harmonies and a jubilant feel. They’ll tailor their set to your needs, with the option of performing with musical instruments, for a fuller sound. Gospel choirs are super flexible, too, able to perform indoors or outdoors, at a church or civil ceremony – whatever you choose, prepare yourself for goosebumps.
Orchestra
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- An orchestra of musical supremos from the Philharmonia, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, and the English Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Christopher Warren-Green.
Your way:
Most people don’t have room for a full orchestra, but string quartets and classical ensembles can still provide that traditional feel, performing the works of the great composers and contemporary hits. If your style is more contemporary classic and you do have space for a full-force affair, big bands and jazz orchestras – with or without vocalists – can provide supercool classical versions of your favourite chart hits, as well as swing and jazz tracks to get your party started.
Soprano singer
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- Also joining the orchestra will be soprano singer, Elin Manahan Thomas.
Your way:
Hearing a soprano singer live is pretty spine-tingling, and really adds something a bit magical to your ceremony. Singing with or without instrumental backup, a classical crossover singer can perform anything from traditional classics and operatic pieces, to your favourite show tunes and modern chart hits, from Ave Maria to West Side Story to Adele.
Browse Classical & Opera Singers and wedding singers.
Trumpeter
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- Renowned trumpeter David Blackadder completes the orchestral line-up.
- The musical accompaniment (that we know about so far!) also includes traditional state trumpeters who will perform during the service.
Your way:
For a real sense of occasion, a solo trumpeter or troupe can be as formal as you like in military dress or dinner jackets. They can signal the bride’s entrance, and a fanfare could mark the moment you tie the knot, with the dramatic sound filling your venue and thrilling your guests. From a rousing reveille to a fantastic fanfare, your trumpeters also offer to accommodate special musical requests, with bespoke arrangements just for you.
Pianist / Organist
Harry & Meghan’s choice:
- The service will also feature traditional organ music, performed by Luke Bond.
Your way:
Nothing really replaces the traditional and spiritual sound of a church organ. Many churches will offer this service, but if you’re not getting married in a church or your church doesn’t have an organ, a pianist can provide an uplifting and more modern alternative with or without vocals. With a flexibility of style, piano music can be cool or spectacular, to create your ultimate big day style. From a classical sonata to your favourite film themes, some swing, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, or the latest chart hits on piano, you can tailor your choice of ceremony accompaniment.
What remains to be seen is who Harry and Meghan are having for their evening reception. The prince himself has enjoyed partying to our very own top wedding band Hipster, regulars at festivals UK-wide and high profile weddings up and down the UK. So, for the ultimate in partying, royal wedding-style, why not bag one of the UK’s most in-demand rock and indie party bands?
