Arranging a funeral Songs and Hymns
Every funeral is personal, and the service can provide an opportunity to reflect the life, personality and memories of the person who has died. From choosing meaningful funeral music to creating a personalised Order of Service, there are many ways to make the service feel unique to your loved one.
Music can play an important part in a funeral service. It can bring back memories, provide comfort and help celebrate the individuality of your loved one.
The music you choose does not have to follow a particular tradition. You might choose a favourite hymn such as Abide With Me, a classic song like You’ll Never Walk Alone, traditional organ music or a contemporary song that held special meaning for the person who has died.
Some families choose music that reflects a loved one’s personality, interests or memories shared together. This might be a song they always played at home, music from a favourite artist or a piece associated with an important moment in their life.
Depending on where the funeral is being held, there may be different options available for playing music. This could include an organist, pre-recorded music or a music system. You may also wish to arrange for a singer or musician to perform live during the service.
There are several points during a funeral where you might choose to include music. For example, music could be played as people enter the service, during a period of reflection or as family and friends leave.
You may want to choose different pieces of music for different parts of the service. An uplifting or meaningful song could be played on arrival, while a quieter piece might accompany a moment of reflection.
There are no universal rules about which songs you should choose. What matters most is finding music that feels appropriate for your loved one and the type of service you are arranging.
A personalised Order of Service helps guide family and friends through the funeral, but it can also become a meaningful keepsake to remember someone special.
An Order of Service can include photographs and details about the funeral alongside personal touches such as:
You may prefer a simple and traditional design, or something more personal that reflects the person whose life you are celebrating.
There are many ways to personalise funeral stationery beyond choosing photographs. A design could take inspiration from your loved one’s hobbies, interests, career or favourite places.
For example, someone who loved gardening might have their favourite flowers incorporated into the design, while the stationery for someone who loved the countryside could use colours or imagery that remind the family of a favourite location.
Alongside Orders of Service, funeral stationery can include Attendance Cards, Memorial Cards and Bookmarks. These can give family and friends something personal to take away and keep after the service.
There is no single way to personalise a funeral. Small details such as a favourite piece of music, a treasured photograph or a meaningful reading can help the service reflect the person being remembered.
If you are unsure where to begin, our funeral directors can talk you through the options available and help you choose music, stationery and personal touches that feel right for your loved one.
Please get in touch with our team if you would like help arranging a personal and meaningful funeral service.
