Classical music can be a moving and dignified choice at funerals - but with such a variety of songs to pick from, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we’ve gathered some diverse examples of beautiful classical music choices for funerals.
In this article, you’ll find:
- Instrumental classical pieces for funerals
- Classical pieces for funerals with choral or vocal parts
- Classical organ pieces for funerals
- Religious classical pieces for funerals
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Classical organ pieces for funerals
If there will be an organ at the venue for your service, you might consider one of these beloved pieces for the organ.
- Handel - Air from the Water Music
This rhythmic piece has a soaring and hopeful feel.
Watch on YouTube - Handel - Rhosymedre
A mid-tempo piece that moves beautifully between uplifting and sombre phrases.
Watch on YouTube - Percy Whitlock - Folk Tune
A gentle, meandering piece that would work well for a moment of reflection.
Watch on YouTube - Edward Elgar - Nimrod
Voted the ‘greatest piece of British classical music’ this is a majestic and touching piece, and could work well as the accompaniment to the entrance of the coffin
Listen on Spotify - Bach - St Anne Prelude & fugue in E Flat Major
A rousing and powerful organ piece that could work well at the end of the funeral.
Listen on Spotify - Florence Price - Adoration
A lovely choice if a quieter ending was preferred
Listen on Spotify - Thalben-Ball - Elegy
This 20th century piece might suit someone with more modern tastes. Beautiful and subtle.
Listen on Spotify
Religious classical pieces for funerals
- Schubert - Ave Maria
A sung prayer with a piano accompaniment - this is a simple, pure, peaceful and moving piece.
Watch on YouTube - Bach - Bist du bei Mir
This piece can work well in a church or another setting - this might be particularly suitable for someone who had a quiet, personal spirituality.
Watch on YouTube - Purcell - Evening Hymn
A nice poem about final rest that ends with a ‘hallelujah’.
Watch on YouTube - Handel - I know that my Redeemer Liveth
A hopeful and rousing piece.
Watch on YouTube - Maurice Duruflé - Requiem, Op. 9: V. Pie Jesu, "Pie Jesu Domine"
This piece feature cello and vocals and has a slight Gregorian chant feel about it.
Watch on YouTube. Or, you might prefer this setting sung by Aksel Rykkvin.
For more advice and guidance, including ten ways to use music at a funeral and how to create an order of service, visit our blog.
If you’re ready to organise a funeral, we’re here for you.
