Most of us will only have to organise a funeral once or twice in our lives. However, when that time comes, we will usually have to arrange everything in just a few days, and at a time when we will probably least feel like doing so.
It is my aim to make it easier for you to arrange music for a funeral or a memorial service. Tell your Funeral Director to contact me, and we will work together to make the service dignified, sincere and special for all who attend.
With over 35 years’ experience of playing the organ and arranging music for funerals and memorial services I understand that the death of a loved one is an extremely difficult and anxious time, with arrangements needing to made quickly. If you need an organist or some help in planning music or organising musicians, then you can safely leave the arrangements to me. You can contact me at any time on 07850716760 or by email: tony@tonywhite.org.uk.
I offer a dignified and professional service and will come to your local church, chapel or crematorium. I was previously one of the resident organists at Reading Crematorium for five years and have experience of having worked with many different funeral directors throughout the UK area. Over the last three decades I have played organs at many of the churches in and around the West Midlands/Staffordshire area and I am experienced in the liturgies of Catholic, Church of England and Free Church funerals as well as humanist and civil ceremonies.
Should you choose to hold your memorial service at a location other than a church of chapel, I can provide a portable keyboard and appropriate sound equipment as required.
I am always happy to discuss arrangements before a funeral or memorial service - whether you require traditional hymns or perhaps a favourite song to be played, or some music from a CD or iPod just let me know and I’ll be happy to help. I have access to a vast library of both sheet and recorded music and can usually meet most requests. I can also arrange for soloists or choirs if required.
There are key places where music is appropriate during a funeral or memorial service
Entrance
As your loved one makes their final journey into church or crematorium then some dignified music is usually appropriate. Perhaps the chorales on Jesu, Joy of Mans Desiring, or Sheep May Safely Graze by JS Bach would be appropriate, or we can discuss other songs which may have a special meaning for you. Alternatively I can arrange for a soloist to play something appropriate. See a list of suggested music here.
Hymns
With such a wide variety of hymns available, it’s so important to choose songs which are not only special to you, but which your friends and relatives can sing with ease. I can help and advise you to make the right choices for your service. Here are some suggestions. If you would like a choir to help lead the singing I can arrange one for you.
Exit
At the end of your service it is often appropriate to have some music as your friends and relatives leave the venue. Sometimes quiet, reflective music is best, or perhaps you might prefer a more triumphant piece in celebration of a life well lived. Whatever your requirement, I will work with you to ensure the music is a fitting tribute to your loved one.
See some possible choices here.
07850716760