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HomeMy WebLinkAboutClinton News-Record, 1986-02-19, Page 40Showcase '86, page 20 V2I/ZA Traditional wedding music still favourite By Alan Rivett As much as things change, there are some things that somehow resist a lot of change - especially when it involves the traditions of the wedding ceremony. And the time-honored music used in the wedding ceremony is an integral part of the tradition. While some changes have taken place, wedding music still caters to the classics which have stood the test of tirne, says a Londesboro organist who has played the organ at weddings since 1954. Gail Lear, a veteran organist who has played over 150 wecklings, says classical hymns still reign sup,.eiue in the three sec- tions of the service - the prelude, when the guests are being ushered into the church; the processional, when the bride walks down the isle, and the recessional, after the bride and groom have signed the register. However, more modern music is now ac- ceptable for the soloist to sing during the wedding. According to Mrs. Lear, the choice of the processional hymn is a decision made by the bride and groom, but it, should be ap- proved by the minister beforehand. "Any hymn the bride and groom choose must be cleared with the minister. The A Picture Perfect Wedding Begins With Us... Photographs to Cherish Forever, An exquisite portrayal of your wedding that captures every intimate moment. Photographs that will remind you of the special joy of your wedding day. R.J. NEPHEW PHOTOGRAPHY 65 Montreal Street, Goderich For Appointment Call 524-2029 minister has the final say in each w- dividual religion. The hymns vary from church to church," she said. The popular hymns most often played for the processional are Praise My Soul, Holy, Holy, Holy, arid Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee. The wedding standard Here Comes The Bride is seldom used in the wedding service today, owing to the fact most churches feel it is a "secular opera" which is inappropriate for a church wed- ding, said Mrs. Lear, adding it has been under the ban since the 1960s. For the recessional, Mrs. Lear says the music has remained the same with the Trumpet Voluntary by Purcell and Mendelssohn's Wedding March as the traditional pieces used throughout the years. Mrs. Lear says she inust be prepared kw the variable length of time before the ceremony starts by carrying an ample supply of music for the prelude as the guests are being seated. On one occasion. she recalled a couple who requested she play only three pieces for the prelude. 13ut, knowing the unpredictability of weddings, she brought along extra pieces of music just in case. As it turned out, the wedding started over 30 minutes late. The music most often played before the service is Canon in D by Pachelbel, Jesus Joy of Man's Desiring by Bach, Melody w F by Rubenstein and Minuet in G by Handel, she says. The music performed by the soloist is where the most latitude in music selection is found, says Mrs. Lear. Over the years more and more popular songs have been used for the wedding ceremony. But, once again, the bride and groom should consult with the minister to find out what is ap- propriate. "Some ministers will allow popular songs to be used as lung as they have meaningful words and do not destroy the reverence of the service," she said. In the 1950s and 60s, songs such as rAl • Perfect Love, I'll Walk Beside You and Oh Promise Me were popular wedding songs sung by soloists, said Mrs. Lear. Today, soloists routinely sing ballads such as Evergreen, The Wedding Song, The Rose and Endless Love. Even guitars, an in- strument once unheard of for the wedding Turn to page 21 Plan perfect honeymoon When planning your trip, start with a good travel agent. She can be a big help by arranging ground transportation, sightseeing tours, theater tickets and pro- viding information about currency, passports, good restaurants and points of interest. Whether you'll be enjoying country comforts or big city living, there are many considerations when choosing a place to stay. • Is it located near the places you want to go'? People have been having perfect Wedding Receptions at The Little Inn of Bayfield for over 100 years. Our experience, traditional setting, atmosphere and famous kitchen will make your wedding perfect too! Your reception, large or small, will be planned to the very last detail. Whether you choose our outdoor garden setting, one of our private dining rooms or the main hall, you can be assured of a flawless function and an unforgettable meal. The cost is more reasonable than you might think. So leave the worries to us and enjoy your special day. Because treasured memories come from a beautiful beginning. Rehearsal Parties -Receptions -Bridal Suite THE LITTLE INN of BAYFIELD Main Street. Phone 565-2611 OPEN YEAR ROUND FULLY LICENSED