Introduction
Classical music transcends time. Composed centuries ago, these pieces still resonate deeply, stirring emotions with their beautiful melodies and orchestration. Even without lyrics, classical music offers a powerful way to express feelings.
Choosing funeral music is a personal matter. If your loved one had favorite classical pieces, incorporating them creates a meaningful tribute. Many classical composers poured their own experiences of loss into their work, resulting in a rich repertoire of funeral-appropriate selections.
With such a vast choice, picking the right pieces can feel overwhelming. Fear not! We’ve compiled a list of 10 popular classical selections perfect for a funeral or memorial service.
1) Moonlight Sonata [1st Movement] (Beethoven)
While the 2nd and 3rd movements are some of the most popular classical song well known for their unique and fast-paced sound, the 1st movement starts it off with an almost indescribable sadness. It is perhaps the perfect peaceful send-off for your loved one.
2) Clair de Lune (Debussy)
Classical music always has a way of tugging at heartstrings, and there aren’t many who does it better than Debussy. With each keystroke, you can feel the sadness that has been immortalized through this piece.
3) Ave Maria (Franz Schubert)
One of the most popular classic funeral songs, this timeless classical piece brings in a sense of tranquility and peace to the funeral service while also allowing us to reminisce the memories of our loved ones.
4) Canon In D (Pachelbel)
A staple at weddings, and one of the most famous classical songs, Canon In D is also apt for funerals for its almost bittersweet melody. The steady, almost predictable nature of the song makes it a perfect choice for some calmness.
5) Cantus (Arvo Pärt)
Written in the memory of his beloved friend Benjamin Britten, this song sets it apart in that it begins and ends on a rest note, meaning that there’s silence at the beginning and the end.
6) Adagietto’ [Symphony No. 5] (Mahler)
A hopeful piece, the peaceful melody reminds us that there’s always calm at the end of the storm. Everything will be alright in the end.
7) Air On A G String (Bach)
A piece that is a testament to Bach’s genius, this piece produces a feeling of upliftment in its listeners despite its seemingly simple melody.
8) Adagio In G Minor (Albinoni)
A truly timeless piece, Adagio In G Minor stands out for its ability to evoke a wide variety of emotions out of its listeners. Being in the minor key, it’s a bit melancholic, but at the same time, it provides a sense of hope.
9) Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor (Sergei Rachmaninoff)
The beauty of classical music lies in its complexity. And there aren’t many better at writing complex pieces than Rachmaninoff. Simultaneously sorrowful and optimistic, this beautiful piece is guaranteed to tug at a few heartstrings.
10) Lacrimosa (Wolfgang Mozart)
A part of Mozart’s Requiem, Lacrimosa (Latin for weeping) is unique in that there is a distinction between the first eight bars and the rest of the piece as he died before being able to complete the piece.
