Live music at a funeral service: which pieces fit and what they cost
Many families look for music for a funeral only once the date is already set. Knowing in advance which piece suits which moment makes it much easier to decide quickly.
Pieces by moment
For the entrance, calm and unhurried music works well, such as Bach's Air on the G String from Orchestral Suite No. 3. During an address or a reading, the music is best kept in the background, for example with Massenet's Méditation or Pachelbel's Canon in D. The strongest moment is often Barber's Adagio for Strings or Fauré's Pavane, when the room should fall silent. To close, In Paradisum from Fauré's Requiem is gentle and reconciling.
This selection is a starting point. If a particular piece meant a great deal to the person who has died, we are happy to include it in the programme.
Setup and cost
Solo, one violin: from CHF 500, up to 6 pieces.
Duo, string duo: from CHF 900, up to 8 pieces.
Ensemble, string trio or quartet: from CHF 1,200, up to 12 pieces, price depends on the size.
These are starting prices. Every service is different, so we are glad to talk through the details and find the right arrangement for your family.
How it works
Send us the date, the place (church, chapel of rest or graveside) and the moments you want music for. We reply within 2 hours with a written, no-obligation quote, and we can coordinate timing directly with the funeral home or officiant if you wish. All packages and details are on our memorial music page.