The law

At the time of writing, the music at a civil ceremony must be non-religious (ie not just non-Christian).

However, since the potential choice of music is so enormous, the General Register Office (the regulatory body which deals with civil ceremonies) cannot issue a comprehensive list of what is and is not acceptable. This means that the 'non-religious' definition is subject to the interpretation of individual Registrars, some of whom will interpret the law more liberally than others.

If you are unsure whetheror not a particular piece is permissible, contact the General Register Office on 0151 471 4803, who will be able to advise. If the GRO say that a piece is permissible, the Registrar will generally follow their advice although as we understand it, they are not obliged to do so.

You can also write to the General Register Office at:

General Register Office
Marriages Section
Smedley Hydro
Trafalgar Road
Birkdale
Southport PR8 2HH

Certainly, you should always clear your music list with your Registrar before the ceremony, as Registrars have been known to interrupt ceremonies to prevent the playing of inappropriate music!

As a starting point you may well find inspiration on the two CDs of music for civil weddings produced by our sister company, WMC Records. See www.cdsforlife.co.uk for details.

If you are not getting married for a year of two, and are simply doing some research and advance planning, it's possible that you may be able to take advantage of the exciting proposals included in the White Paper published on 22 January 2002.

For example, modernisation of the registration system will mean that couples will have a greater choice of where to marry. Furthermore, current restrictions on time of marriage will also be removed.

Couples will still not be able to marry in hot air balloons, underwater or in planes, but it is possible that the legislation may allow for marriages on board ships that are moored in territorial waters. Regulation of marriages will be based on the celebrant rather than the building in which it takes place.