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Is it appropriate to use pre-recorded music?

     Sometimes. Once again, location plays an important role. In a traditional church setting where traditional, religious or classical pieces are used, you will want to use a live instrumentalists and/or vocalists. Most traditional churches require that you use their staff organist and some even have specific soloists and accompanists that they use. Occassionally, you will find some churches that will allow a live vocalist to come in and use pre-recorded sound tracks.
     In a contemporary church or non-religious setting, you can usually use all or a combination of live music and pre-recorded music. A factor that you may want to consider before making the decision to use pre-recorded music, however, is the quality of the sound sytem in the facility. If it is inadequate, you may want to locate some equipment to handle the type of music you would like to use.
         It will also be necessary for you to appoint or hire someone to play the songs in the places that you have selected. Introduce this person to your wedding coordinator so that they can work together to make the music and the ceremony go smoothly. This person should also attend the rehearsal so that he/she will be familiar with the order of the ceremony.
         When selecting your music, look at the song length time and try to choose songs that will not be too long or too short for the different parts of the ceremony. (See Music Outlines to determine how long each part will be.) Always bring extra instrumental music along to fill in the gaps just in case the pre-recorded music runs out.
         For the best quality sound and most efficiency, use CD's. Cassette tapes do not provide the best sound and also pose the hassle of having to rewind and locate songs on the tape.

If finances or circumstances are such that you must use
pre-recorded music, all of the information above should help you to have a beautiful, smooth music background for your special day.