Songs for a Funeral

Don't let the importance of music scare you. Funeral music takes many forms these days, and the most important thing to know is that, as long as the music is meaningful to you in connection with the deceased, you will make a good choice.

There's no single type of music that's appropriate, but the best funeral music is that which touches people on an emotional level. It's becoming increasingly common for people to choose non-traditional music for their funerals. They may choose their favorite song or a song that reminds them of good times or special moments in their lives. Some people want to leave mourners with a message so they choose music that conveys that message for them. The lyrics of a song can serve as a eulogy of sorts.

If you plan on having a religious funeral, it's best to check with the religious leader in your community where the funeral will be held. He or she will be able to tell you about funeral traditions and how they dictate the music that should be played.

Sometimes certain traditional songs are played, which can serve to comfort religious mourners within the framework of their beliefs. But that doesn't mean your own selections won't be allowed. Talk to your religious leader and present your selections to ensure they are appropriate. You may very well decide to play a traditional song like Ave Maria followed by the deceased's favorite pop song.