Music for Funerals All you need to know about hiring live musicians for Funerals...

From time to time we are asked to perform at Funerals and whilst it can be a very traumatic experience we find that music lifts the spirit and can make a huge difference to a bereaved family.

This year alone we have performed at over 20 funerals with performers ranging from Opera Singers and Organists to Saxophonists, Irish Pipers, Scottish Pipers, Dixieland Jazz Band and Cocktail Jazz Band, Harpists and String quartets.

What sort of funerals have you provided music for?

We have performed in Woodland Burial Grounds, Hotels, Crematorium and Churches and have lead the Funeral Party from home to the church and from the Chapel to the Grave. We have a great number of years of experience in helping families come to terms with their loss.

Funeral Sheet Music

What is the process?

We spend our time on the telephone liaising with the family, the Funeral Director and the Vicar or Celebrant. We will then provide the music which the family want and can advise on what music would be suitable if it's difficult for them to choose.

We know from the great number of Thank you's that we receive that music for Funerals makes such a huge difference in the healing process and we feel that it is a privilege to perform in these circumstances.

Time scale

Funerals are organised normally a couple of days before - as much notice as possible is appreciated though.

Suitable musicians for funerals

The following types of musician tend to work well at funerals...

Harpists - Music for funerals

Harpist

With a soothing and gentle tone, the wonderful sound of a harp makes it the ideal choice for creating a quiet, reflective atmosphere. Click the button below to see and hear all of our fantastic harpists.

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Guitarists

Guitarist

The acoustic or even electric guitar is one of the most adaptable instruments and is perfect for gentle settings like funerals. Click the button below to see and hear all of our brilliant guitarists.

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Pianists

Pianist

A pianist is one of the most traditional and popular choices to provide background entertainment for funerals or wakes. Click the button below to see and hear all of our piano players.

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Organists

Organist

If you are having a religious or traditional ceremony then an organist is probably one of the most suitable musicians you can hire. Click the button below to see and hear all of our organists.

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Farewell Funeral Band

Farewell Funeral Band

Whether you are looking for a New Orleans Funeral or just wish to have live music we are able to help, music brings a huge part to a funeral and will give your loved ones the send-off they deserve.

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Strollers Funeral Band

Strollers Funeral Band

Strollers Funeral Band is a traditional New Orleans style marching jazz band. We have been playing together for funerals and memorials for over 15 years.

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Last Minute Musicians is recommended for funerals by The Guardian

"The key to finding affordable but bespoke musicians when you have around two days' notice is a website like lastminutemusicians.com - you choose the musical genre you fancy, find a band photo that looks good, listen to a few audio examples of your shortlistees, click 'book' and they will appear at the right moment, in the right outfit, playing the right music. As if supplied by God."
Emma Freud, The Guardian

How to do a funeral (The Guardian)

About the Author

Sarah-Jane is our director of live music is also a professional opera/jazz singer with over 20 years experience organising music for events.

Need help?

We're always happy to help. If you need help choosing bands or musicians please get in touch...

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