15 Best Classical Songs for Wedding Ceremonies (2026)
There’s no better way to create the perfect score for your wedding ceremony than with classical wedding music. Drawing on our experience at FixTheMusic, we’ve compiled a selection of the most beautiful classical arrangements for weddings to inspire you.
Classical music is timeless for a reason: these famous arrangements transcend eras, evoking the true tenets of love. These pieces have stood the test of time, with some being hundreds of years old - the perfect choice for you and the everlasting memories of your wedding.
In 2026, we’re seeing more couples than ever balance personal choice with tradition. Classical music continues to play a central role in wedding ceremonies, offering emotion, beauty and a sense of occasion that never dates.
As well as some timeless classical pieces, we have also included some classical arrangements of contemporary hits, to reflect how today’s couples are blending classical elegance with music that feels uniquely theirs.
Starting off the first big moment in any wedding ceremony, the bride’s procession, we’ll present to you some all-time classic options, as well as some lesser-known pieces.
Walking down the aisle is a big moment that requires a song big enough to match. Check out our list below:
1. BRIDAL CHORUS – WAGNER
Perhaps the most famous processional song, ubiquitous for a reason, this classic choice will evoke all of the feelings and sentiments you’ve always dreamed of for your wedding. A true classic, Wagner’s 1850 ‘Bridal Chorus’ has been chosen time and time again, and it's now synonymous with the bridal march. As we always say, if it ain’t broke…
Best for: traditional church ceremonies and grand entrances.
2. AVE MARIA - SCHUBERT
One of the best classical pieces ever composed, Schubert’s ‘Ave Maria’ is a brilliant choice for anyone looking to add that wow factor to their wedding.
Best for: religious ceremonies or reflective moments.
3. THE FOUR SEASONS - VIVALDI
An elegant and simple choice for all, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons dates all the way back to 1718 and has been chosen time and time again as the soundtrack for couples across time.
4. WILDEST DREAMS - DUOMO
Taylor Swift’s contemporary pop hit ‘Wildest Dreams’ reimagined as a classical piece was popularised by Netflix’s Bridgerton and the wider trend of classical crossover soundtracks. Introducing a whole new audience to the beauty of classical instruments, Bridgerton’s classical covers have reinvigorated interest in the classical genre.
Wildest Dreams is no exception; a beautiful love song that combines old and new.
The above video shows one of our top London string quartets performing live.
After you’ve tied the knot, you’ll want the first steps you take as a married couple to have a fitting soundtrack. You can have a bit more fun with this choice - with the serious bit over it’s time to head towards the celebration! You can see our picks here:
5. ODE TO JOY - BEETHOVEN
Beethoven’s ‘Symphony No.9’ commonly known as ‘Ode To Joy’ is a real anthem of positivity, a piece to start your married life off with joy.
6. TRUMPET TUNE AND AIR – HENRY PURCELL
A piece that oozes energy and brightness, this striking trumpet score is the perfect choice for a joyous walk back down the aisle.
7. ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE - THE BEATLES
For something a bit different, you could opt for a Love Actually-style surprise performance for your first walk as a married couple. We have an excellent selection of tenors and musicians available who specialise in this “impromptu” style of performance - something really special for you and your guests.
And what better song than ‘All You Need Is Love’ by The Beatles? An ode to love, it’s a timeless classic for a reason.
8. CANON IN D – PACHELBEL
The quintessential wedding processional, Pachelbel’s late‑17th‑century Canon in D is beloved for its gently unfolding chord progression that echoes the steady heartbeat of newlyweds‑to‑be.
Whether played by a string quartet or a full chamber ensemble, its warm, layered harmonies create an atmosphere of poised anticipation as you make your way down the aisle.
9. LA RÉJOUISSANCE (FROM MUSIC FOR THE ROYAL FIREWORKS) – HANDEL
If you’re after a jubilant recessional, look no further than La Réjouissance (“The Rejoicing”).
Written by Handel in 1749 to celebrate the end of the War of the Austrian Succession, this brass‑forward movement bursts with regal fanfare and infectious optimism, perfect for that triumphant first walk together as a married couple. Its bright, celebratory flourishes guarantee smiles all round as the party begins.
10. CLAIR DE LUNE – DEBUSSY
Dreamy, delicate and deeply romantic, Debussy’s Clair de Lune is an exquisite choice for couples seeking a more understated and poetic entrance. Its flowing piano lines can easily be adapted for string quartet or harp, creating a soft atmosphere that feels both classic and modern at the same time.
Perfect for: a twilight winter ceremony or garden weddings.
11. AIR ON THE G STRING – BACH
Bach’s Air on the G String is a graceful and serene masterpiece often chosen for processions or prelude music. Its stately beauty and slow unfolding melody give the ceremony a sense of gravitas without being overly formal.
Ideal for: traditional venues, cathedrals or anyone who wants something classic but a little more unexpected than Wagner.
12. ARRIVAL OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA – HANDEL
This lively and joyful piece, originally composed as an instrumental interlude in Handel’s oratorio Solomon, is a wedding favourite for a reason. Its bright tempo and jubilant tone make it the perfect soundtrack for your first walk as a married couple.
Works beautifully for: organ, strings or a mixed ensemble for maximum fanfare.
13. SPRING 1 (FROM RECOMPOSED: VIVALDI – MAX RICHTER) – RICHTER
A modern reimagining of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Max Richter’s Spring 1 offers the perfect fusion of baroque grandeur and contemporary minimalism. It’s light, uplifting and cinematic. An inspired alternative for couples who love classical but want something unique.
A great fit for: modern weddings, minimalist décor or Bridgerton-inspired themes.
14. MEDITATION FROM THAÏS – MASSENET
Meditation is one of the most emotionally stirring violin solos ever composed. Often performed during the signing of the register or as pre-ceremony music, it’s tender and moving, the perfect musical “breath” in the middle of the day’s biggest moments.
Best with: solo violin and piano or string quartet.
15. CON TE PARTIRÒ – BOCELLI
While not strictly “classical,” this Bocelli ballad has become a modern wedding classic when arranged for strings or tenor. Its soaring melody and emotional weight make it ideal for the register signing or even as a first dance in a classical style.
Great for: romantic ballrooms, outdoor sunset weddings or couples who love operatic drama.
At FixTheMusic, we see these pieces chosen time and time again by couples across the UK and Europe.
So there you have it, our shortlist of classical arrangements for weddings. If you’ve been inspired by any of these, be sure to check out our browse page where you can see our finest classical musicians and their unforgettable performances.
