How to Find Musicians for Catholic Weddings

Your big day is on the horizon (or that of your friend, daughter or relative). The priest or deacon, readers, wedding party, florist and photographer are all in place to do their part in your Catholic nuptial mass or ceremony. You still need to find singers and instrumentalists, however, who are both competent professionals and familiar with the musical flow of Catholic weddings.

Instructions

1. Determine the role musicians will play in your wedding. If you're having the full mass, you'll need at least one lead singer and either a pianist or organist. Vocal and instrumental ensembles, or a full choir, are also popular choices for nuptial masses. If you're not having full mass, you can get by without a vocalist as long as an accompanist is in place.

2. Consult your parish priest, pastoral associate or music director for a list of available musicians. Choir members and cantors are the best options. Not only will they be available since most Catholic weddings take place outside of regular mass times, they're also very knowledgeable about musical liturgy, as well. Most Catholic musicians are happy to help brides and grooms select appropriate wedding songs. (See "How to Pick Music for Catholic Weddings" under Related eHows.)

3. Attend the different masses at the parish where the wedding will take place. Most churches have anywhere from two to six service times over the weekend that feature different singers and musicians. Besides benefiting you spiritually, you'll get a free concert, as well. If you like what you hear, approach the individuals after mass and ask if they'd be interested in singing or playing at your wedding.

4. Check out the ads in your local diocesan publications. Many Catholic musicians advertise their services in the classified section of these church newspapers and magazines. If you don't already subscribe to a diocesan publication, visit your diocesan website to access the classifieds.

5. Get a recommendation from Catholic friends, family members or coworkers for a singer or instrumentalist they used. That way, you'll know they have the experience and musical skills necessary to enhance your own Catholic wedding.

Tips & Warnings

• Arrange and attend at least once practice session with the musicians before the wedding.

• Vocalists and musicians are necessary because most Catholic churches don't allow recorded music in weddings.

• Only choose family members and friends who have the necessary skills and a liturgical background as Catholic wedding musicians.

Resources

• Find diocesan classifieds at Catholic Press Association.
• Get music tips from National Association of Pastoral Musicians.