Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” from the 9th Symphony is a really versatile piece for a wedding ceremony.
The tune was used for the hymn “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” so it can easily be used in either a religious or secular setting.
It works well for the processional, and it makes a nice bridal entrance alternative to Wager’s Bridal March. Because it has a certain “triumphant” quality to it, I think it particularly works well for the recessional at the end of the ceremony.
David and Felicia asked me to play Ode to Joy during the prelude at their Ivy Hall wedding, and my assistant (who also happens to be my daughter) took this video:
Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” at Ivy Hall Wedding
Is “Ode to Joy” a song that you might like at your ceremony?
If so, contact me and tell me a little bit about your wedding!