How to Choose Hymns, Songs, Music, and Readings for a Funeral: A Thoughtful Guide

Posted on January 23, 2025

by Alec

A black and white photo of guests sitting at a funeral servicePlanning a funeral takes thought, especially when it comes to selecting hymns, songs, music, and readings. These elements set the tone of the service, reflecting the unique personality and life of your loved one. They can comfort grieving hearts and bring people together in remembrance.

This guide will walk you through the process of choosing hymns, songs, music, and readings that honour your loved one while creating a meaningful and memorable service.

1. Reflect on the Individual’s Personality and Beliefs

The first step is to consider your loved one’s personality, preferences, and beliefs. Think about:

  • Their faith or spirituality: Did they have a particular hymn or scripture they cherished?
  • Their favourite music: Were there songs they loved to listen to or that remind you of their happiest moments?
  • Their character: Were they traditional, modern, or a mix of both?

These reflections can guide your choices, ensuring the service feels personal and meaningful.

2. Choosing Hymns for the Service

Hymns are a traditional and comforting part of many funeral services. They provide a sense of unity as attendees sing together and often carry powerful messages of hope and peace. You and your family may have favourite hymns or songs too, so make a note of these to discuss and your order of service comes together.

Popular Funeral Hymns:

  • Abide With Me
  • The Lord Is My Shepherd (Psalm 23)
  • Amazing Grace
  • How Great Thou Art
  • All Things Bright and Beautiful

Your officiant or celebrant can help you choose hymns that align with the tone of the service and provide guidance on verses to include or omit.

3. Selecting Songs or Music

Music is deeply personal and can evoke strong emotions, making it a poignant addition to any funeral. Whether it’s a reflective instrumental piece or a favourite song, music can beautifully honour the life of your loved one.

Ideas for Funeral Music:

  • Classical music: Pieces by composers like Bach or Beethoven create an elegant, reflective atmosphere.
  • Popular songs: Tracks like Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli or Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole are often chosen for their emotional resonance.
  • Personal favourites: Was there a particular artist or genre your loved one adored? Including their favourite song is a lovely way to remember them.

For older loved ones, you may want to explore our guide on Choosing Funeral Songs for the Older Generation.

4. Choosing Readings or Poems/choosing-funeral-songs-for-the-older-generation

Readings can provide comfort, share memories, or express sentiments that may be hard to articulate in your own words.

Types of Funeral Readings:

  • Religious texts: Verses from the Bible, such as John 14:1-3 or Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, are comforting in Christian services.
  • Poetry: Poems like Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep by Mary Elizabeth Frye or Remember Me by Christina Rossetti are widely loved for their heartfelt words.
  • Personal writings: A letter, diary entry, or meaningful quote written or cherished by your loved one adds a deeply personal touch.

For more ideas, see our guide on How to Choose Readings for a Funeral.

5. Considering the Overall Tone of the Service

The tone of the service will often determine the type of hymns, music, and readings to include.

  • Traditional Services: Opt for classic hymns, scripture readings, and formal music.
  • Celebration of Life Services: Consider uplifting songs and light-hearted readings that celebrate the joy of their life.
  • Intimate Gatherings: Select meaningful music and poetry that reflect the closeness of family and friends.

Don’t hesitate to mix traditional and modern elements if that’s what feels right for your loved one.

6. Involving Family and Friends

Choosing hymns, songs, music, and readings doesn’t have to be done alone. Involving close family and friends can:

  • Provide inspiration and suggestions you may not have considered.
  • Allow them to feel part of the process.
  • Honour their shared memories and perspectives.

You could ask a family member to read a poem or select a piece of music that held special meaning to them.

7. Checking Practical Considerations

Before finalising your choices, it’s important to consider:

  • Length: Ensure your hymns, songs, or readings fit within the service’s time constraints.
  • Location: Some venues, such as crematoriums, may have restrictions on certain types of music or readings.
  • Permission: Check whether the officiant or celebrant needs to approve the choices, especially in religious services.

8. Trusting Your Instincts

Above all, trust your instincts when making these choices. You know your loved one best, and whatever you select will reflect the love and thought you’ve put into honouring their memory.

Need More Help?

At Funeral Stationery 4U, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our online editor makes it easy to create a personalised Order of Service, including your chosen hymns, songs, music, and readings, with no need to pre-determine the number of pages.

If you’d like to learn more, explore:

Alternatively, call us on 01824 708 804 or email enquiries@funeralstationery4u.co.uk.

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