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Selecting Memorial Hymns
The selection of music played at a memorial service can set the tone for the whole event. The deceased's preferences as to whether they would have like the mood to be somber or celebratory should be respected. There are a few tips that may make choosing appropriate funeral hymns a bit easier.
First and foremost, if the deceased has left any special instructions as to selections they would like to have played, those wishes should always be honored. If there are no such directives in place, then take into consideration if they were one more for religious classics or leaned more towards the contemporary style. The service is meant to accurately reflect the preferences of the one who has passed on.
A hymn may be very beautiful, touching and meaningful, but there are a few other things that should also be considered. To begin with, determine whether or not the songs are to be sung by the congregation, by a choir or if a recorded version is to be played. This decision will have a huge impact as to which tunes will be most appropriate.
Some arrangements are only effectively performed by the trained voices of a choir or talented individual. For a group of voices not used to harmonizing, it is best to choose songs that are of moderate range and are well known. Everyone will not be able to participate if the tune is difficult or unfamiliar.
Carefully consider the words of each song. They need to not only communicate the desired sentiments, but also be easy to understand. One filled with difficult lyrics and confusing structure is not going to have the same effect as something to which the people can relate.
Funeral hymns should be selected by considering multiple factors. The desired tone of the event, the deceased's personality and the people who will be attending are a few of those aspects. A song's content and length are also to be kept in mind.
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