Many of us feel uncomfortable speaking about planning for end-of-life. Yet, it is one of the most beneficial things to do for those left behind as they struggle with dealing with grief. Having specific plans allows them to navigate the world you leave behind a little easier to manage.
One of the details you may not have thought of while planning a funeral is choosing the right music. You may be wondering why it matters and what the role of music in funerals is all about. We'd love to share the role of music and how to choose songs to honor a loved one or your life.
Emotions
Whether religious hymns are present or not, music's emotional significance is universal. Music can evoke powerful emotions and trigger memories, from joy to celebration to sorrow and mourning. In the context of a memorial or funeral, music can help those grieving connect with the memories and emotions associated with the person who passed away and provide comfort and support.
Music is a meaningful way of honoring our loved ones. Listening to music during a loss can help us reflect and process our feelings, which is good for us. Listening to music can help reduce tension, anxiety, and pain and may also help regulate pulse and heart rate.
The Role of Music In Funerals
The roles music can take when used in funerals can fall under three main categories: marking the funeral rituals, remembering the deceased, and evoking emotions and memories of the person's life being honored.
Music can often mark the beginning and end of a funeral rite, providing background comfort, and can be alternated with other funeral elements, such as relating to the deceased, giving insight into the words and actions or lifestyle of the dead, and even representing the deceased's personality.
Music adds to the symbolic dimension of a funeral meant to help those living process grief and be comforted.
Choosing The Right Music
There is no one-size-fits-all when choosing the music for a funeral. If planning for yourself, select the music that speaks to and of you the most. When planning for a loved one who has passed away without instructions about what music to play, here are some things to consider before finding the perfect music.
- Which song was most meaningful to the loved one who has passed away? Did they have a favorite song they always sang or replayed over and over? Was there a song that held special significance to them?
- What is the tone of the memorial service or funeral? If the funeral is traditional, you may consider something that matches that tone, such as Amazing Grace, a conventional and moving hymn. If the memorial service is more of a gathering meant to celebrate, perhaps music such as Time of Your Life by Green Day or What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong may fit that tone.
- Did they have a favorite band? If, for example, your loved one was a massive fan of The Beatles or Beach Boys, playing songs from their favorite bands can make you feel like your loved one is still there, comforting you from afar as you recall memories and special times.
Whether classical, contemporary, jazz, or gospel, let your heart speak when selecting music; it will surely be the right choice. All that matters is that it represents and pays tribute to the deceased. You can choose to play musical recordings or call upon a professional band and singers, should you wish to. Without a doubt, music's healing presence is an essential and beautiful element of any memorial or funeral.