1. During the Visitation: (the hour before the service begins or the night before the service) Music relaxes those who are attending and provides a focal point when there is a break in conversation or an uneasiness in what to say.



2. Before the Memorial Service: (as people are arriving) Live music is more personal and welcoming than silence or "muzak". Feel free to request favorite songs of your loved one or your family. If the musician has access to your requests, s/he will usually try to accommodate your wishes. If there is a special song that the musician can not make available, plan to download it from the internet and use it as background music for the video photo montage. Most funeral homes now include a montage as part of the service or viewing or both.

3. During the Memorial Service: (music provides a nice respite from all the speaking) Usually families choose two to three songs, but you can include as many as three to five songs. Having five songs is common for a Catholic funeral.

a. Placement of Solos

1) At beginning: (usually after a welcome and opening prayer) 2) after Scripture reading 3) after eulogy and before pastor's message (in some cases the message will precede the eulogy) 4) after message or sharing of stories by attendees 5) at end of service (after commendation, closing prayer and blessing)

b. Using a congregation hymn: (like "Amazing Grace," or "How Great Thou Art") allows those in attendance to feel like they have added something to the service. The best two places for congregational hymns are at the beginning after an opening welcome and at the end of the service. Around the time of the eulogy and remembrances, in the heart of the service, is a difficult time for people to sing as they are often very emotional.)

4. Graveside Service: Often families choose to have a short service of committal at the graveside. A harpist or guitarist playing music as attendees approach and leave the graveside can be a soothing presence. Many families like to include a vocal solo with harp or guitar at the graveside service.

5. At the reception: choose your favorites or the favorite style of your departed loved one. Consider using lighter songs, waltzes, classical, and music to uplift the spirit of funeral-goers.

Using live acoustic music in any or all of these ways will enhance the day of a memorial service. If live music is not an option, harp music has many physical benefits if played over a decent sound system.