Music for a Humanist Wedding

Personal & Professional Insights from a Wedding Singer

So, you’re having a Humanist wedding ceremony? Fantastic!

I too chose a Humanist ceremony myself back in December 2020, so what follows is a blend of both personal and professional insight when it comes to planning your ceremony music.

Humanist ceremonies are wonderfully personal and, by their very nature, non-religious. There are no rigid rules to follow - only heartfelt moments thoughtfully shaped around your unique story.

When choosing your music, every lyric, note and melody has the potential to reflect and express meaning that words alone sometimes cannot.

Where Music Weaves Through a Humanist Ceremony

Music can naturally flow throughout several key moments of a Humanist wedding ceremony:

• Guest arrival - setting the atmosphere as loved ones gather

• Entrance of the wedding party - marking the transition into the ceremony

• Signing of the register - creating space for reflection

• Exit as newlyweds - a joyful, celebratory close

Each musical choice plays a role in shaping the emotional journey of the ceremony.

Symbolic Elements and Musical Pairings

Many couples also choose to include symbolic elements within their Humanist ceremony, such as hand-fasting, sand-pouring, or planting a tree. These moments can be beautifully paired with a meaningful song or with gentle instrumental guitar, allowing the symbolism to unfold naturally while music quietly supports the emotion of the ceremony.

Why Music Matters in a Humanist Wedding

During a Humanist wedding, music is never merely transactional and it certainly doesn’t need to be predictable or traditional. Instead, it has the power to evoke memories, elicit deeper emotion between you both, and create meaningful connections with the loved ones gathered in the room.

Real Humanist Ceremony Music Examples

As one couple stood for their hand-fasting ritual, and family members placed their personalised ribbons around their hands, I sang Caledonia, a subtle yet deeply meaningful nod to the groom’s Scottish heritage and to the family gathered there to witness it.

Another couple chose to include a standalone song within their ceremony, taking a moment to sit together and simply listen alongside their guests as I sang Stand by Me. The song was chosen for its connection to their shared love of 1960s music — something they discovered together on their very first date.

Finally, during an intimate vow renewal, the couple shared with me the song they considered their song. In collaboration with the wonderful Jean Barrett Quinn (who was also my own Humanist celebrant) we quietly planned something a little special.

With lyrics discreetly placed among the guests, the ceremony unfolded into a collective sing-along of Belinda Carlisle’s Heaven Is a Place on Earth. It was, quite simply, epic.

Final Thoughts on Humanist Ceremony Music

A Humanist ceremony is all about you; your story, your love, your way.

From the moment you walk in, to that joyful first walk out as newlyweds, the right music can make every moment unforgettable.

If you’re currently planning your Humanist wedding ceremony music and would love a singer who approaches it with care, intention, and a deeply personal touch, I would be delighted to be part of your wedding day team.