We’ve all had those moments, usually going about the business of our day and a song will come on that brings memories flooding back. Not only do our memories come rushing to the forefront of our minds, but the way we felt at those times fills our heart with the same emotions and feelings. Music is powerful, it’s poignant, it does more than just fill our ears with background noise, it harnesses emotion and memories and holds them for us in that special place.
When it comes time to select music to play at a funeral, it can seem like a daunting and overwhelming task. But it doesn’t have to be. Music is such a personal thing, it is a reflection of who we are and embodies our taste, our lifestyle and provides the soundtrack for our lives.
When you are looking for the perfect pieces of music to play at a funeral, there’s a few things to remember.
Appropriate Doesn’t Count!
People think that music needs to be funeral appropriate. They couldn’t be more wrong! When we think about what is appropriate for a funeral, we get distracted from what our loved ones would love. If they loved metal, play metal; if they loved country, play country; if they had musical tastes that are diverse and eclectic, well, play a combination of everything. No one will be surprised if you play metal music at the service of a loved one who was a massive fan of the genre, in fact, they would be surprised if you didn’t! Music should pay tribute to your loved one in the style that they would love!
The Words Don’t Have To Be Mournful!
There are no rules when it comes to the lyrics of a song. If it was a favourite piece of music, yet is filled with swears, that’s ok, just ask your officiant to give a little heads up that the soundtrack for your service contains some colourful language. Make it a light hearted thing that people can have a chuckle about. The lyrics to a piece of music can have so many different meanings and interpretations, so don’t stress if you can’t find a piece of music that expresses exactly how you feel. Bring it back to your loved one and select music that they love, regardless of what the lyrics are.
Playing it at a Funeral Won’t Ruin it!
So many times we’ve heard people say “I don’t want to ruin the song by always being sad when I hear it” and whilst this may be true initially, it will grow to be something that helps you to recall a wonderful celebration of your loved one and their life. Our emotions are complex, they evolve over time and whilst today, your emotions may be raw, in time, they will be less intense and the memories you have will be supported by the music you select for a funeral. Let the songs that you use, be part of the legacy and memory that keeps your loved one close.
Music is a wonderful thing. It gives us so many special gifts, but most importantly it helps to frame how we think, feel and act about certain emotions. So when you are selecting the soundtrack to your loved ones celebration, make it meaningful, make it personal and make it all about your loved one and types of music they loved in life. Music is great for the soul, so embrace a wonderful, unique and personal soundtrack for your loved one.
*Is there something that you would like us to write about in our blog? Why not comment and let us know what you want to read about!