Choosing the Right Tribute Song for a Family Member’s Funeral
Choosing the right song for a family member’s funeral can be a deeply personal and emotional task. The selection of the music can reflect the deceased's personality and the family's feelings, making it a significant part of the mourning process. In this article, we explore various tribute songs that have been chosen for funerals and discuss how to make an appropriate choice that honors a loved one.
Popular Choices for Funeral Music
There are a myriad of songs that can serve as fitting tributes, but some stand out for their emotional impact and appropriate tone. One such choice is Dvoák's Symphony No. 9 in E minor, with a choir singing the lyrics to 'Goin Home.' This piece has a timeless quality that can convey the sense of movement and peace that many seek in a tribute to a loved one.
Personalized Selection
Matt Johnson’s ‘Love is Stronger Than Death’ is another poignant choice, especially if it has personal significance to the family. Pink Floyd’s 'Wish You Were Here' album was mentioned as a personal request by someone, which highlights the versatility of music to be a part of such significant life moments.
Humor and Remembrance
Humor can also be an essential part of the process of grieving. The story behind a specific choice of music can be just as important as the choice itself. For example, a friend of a deceased loved one chose to have a Funeral Director play three or four bars of the traditional song 'Pop Goes the Weasel' as a lighthearted touch. This small act of humor can help the family and mourners remember the loved one's personality and the depth of the bond they shared.
Personal Preferences
Your choice of a tribute song should be based on the deceased's personal preferences. Many people have specific songs that they loved or that have meaningful significance to them. For instance, a son sang 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' and 'Build My Mansion Next Door To Jesus' at both his parents’ funerals because they were the last songs his group sang together before disbanding and after reuniting for a mutual friend’s service. These songs were not just reminders of the family’s past, but also the enduring bonds of family and friends.
Appropriate Music for Funerals
Given the solemnity of a funeral, the music should be somber but not overly somber. The song should reflect the essence of the deceased’s personality and the family's circumstances. Some religious families may prefer sacred music, while others may prefer secular pieces. The Prayer “My soul will exalt the name of the Lord” performed in the traditions of Byzantine spiritual hymns is a beautiful choice for those who seek spiritual comfort and guidance.
Conclusion
Selecting the right tribute song for a family member’s funeral is a thoughtful and emotive task. Whether it be a classical symphony, a modern rock album, or a favorite pop song, the decision should honor the deceased and provide comfort to the family and mourners. The right music can provide a sense of closure and help the community of loved ones find solace in the memory of their departed family member.