Signing the register

Traditionally the soloist or choir sings one or two pieces during the signing of the register, usually accompanied by the organist. As a rule, the music at this point of the service should be quite gentle, so as not to detract from the exit of the bridal couple, which generally follows immediately afterwards.

The following are all comparatively gentle, and are suitable for use at this point:

• Bach JS - Jesu, joy of man's desiring ()
• Fauré G - Cantique de Jean Racine
• Mozart WA - Ave verum corpus
• Mozart WA - Laudate Dominum ()
• Rutter J - The Lord bless you and keep you
• Schubert F - Ave Maria

If your wedding ceremony is a celebrated as part of a Mass, any of the above could also be suitably performed as the congregation receive communion.

If you'd prefer something a bit more rousing during the signing of the register, you may find the following closer to your taste:

• Hadley P - My beloved spake
• Handel GF - Let the bright seraphim
• Haydn F - The heavens are telling
• Parry CHH - I was glad ()

Most of this music is featured on the CD Love Divine, obtainable online at WMC Records.