Creating a Personal and Meaningful Tribute
Music can express what words sometimes cannot. It can bring comfort, evoke memories and honour a loved one in a truly personal way. Whether traditional, modern, religious or instrumental, the choice of music can form a powerful part of the funeral service.
At Lodge Brothers, we will guide you through the options and help you choose music that reflects your wishes — and those of your loved one.
Where Music Can Be Included
Music can be incorporated at several points during a funeral service, including:
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As guests enter
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During reflection or quiet moments
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To accompany readings or tributes
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During a slideshow or photo tribute
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As the coffin enters or leaves the chapel
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At the end of the service to set the tone for departure
Some families prefer silence — others choose a single meaningful piece. We will help you select what feels right.
Music Formats We Can Accept
Different venues allow different formats. Your funeral arranger will explain what is suitable for your chosen location.
Most chapels can accept:
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MP3 or digital audio files
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CDs (labelled with track numbers)
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Live musicians or soloists (if arranged in advance)
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Digital playlists (provided well before the service)
For live performances — such as hymns, piano, violin, bagpipes, brass or choir — we can help liaise with musicians or arrange accompaniment if needed.
Choosing the Right Music
When selecting pieces, it may help to consider:
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Favourite artists, albums or songs
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Religious hymns or spiritual music
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Music connected to a hobby or passion
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Classical pieces or instrumental works
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Words the person used to say — could they inspire lyrics or readings?
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A song they always played in the car or sang at home
Some families choose one light-hearted piece at the end to reflect personality and bring a moment of warmth.
There is no right or wrong choice — only what feels meaningful to you.
Religious and Non-Religious Options
We can provide guidance on:
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Common hymns for church or chapel services
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Non-religious or humanist music suggestions
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Readings paired with musical pieces
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Instrumental versions of well-known songs
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Cultural or community-specific choices (e.g. Irish, Caribbean, South Asian)
How to Provide Your Music
To ensure everything runs smoothly on the day, we ask that all music is provided at least 72 hours before the service. This allows time for testing and confirmation with the venue.
We accept:
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Digital files sent via email
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USB memory sticks or CDs
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Online streaming links (only if permitted by the venue)
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Printed lists for live musicians or organists
Your arranger will confirm the best format and coordinate with the chapel or officiant.
Playlist Examples
Some families find it helpful to create a structure such as:
Entry Music – Gentle or reflective
Reflection Music – A favourite piece or personal choice
Closing Music – Hopeful, peaceful or uplifting
We can provide suggestions if needed — or help create a personalised playlist based on your memories and shared stories.
Our Support
You may only need one piece. Or you may wish to create an entire tribute built around music. Whatever you choose, we will ensure it is arranged carefully and played at the right moment.
We handle every detail with dignity and professionalism — so you don’t need to worry about technicalities on the day.
Lodge Brothers
Trusted since 1780
The Lodge Family Difference
From simple farewells to traditional funerals
Contact Us
24 Hours a Day Call: 020 8818 7725
Or contact us online for advice, assistance or a quotation. When you need someone to guide you — we listen, we help, we take care.