Best Irish Wedding Music: Create a Perfect Atmosphere

Welcome to your guide for enhancing your special day. The combination of love and music is unparalleled, and Traditional Irish Tunes for Weddings are a superb choice. With our knowledge and love for Irish music, we're confident you'll find the ideal tunes for your important celebration.

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Our recommended traditional Irish tunes for weddings include "Salley Gardens", "Wild Mountain Thyme", "Planxty Irwin", "Be Thou My Vision", "Caledonia", and "Sí Bheag, Sí Mór". Explore "Inisheer", "Marion Maclean", "The Level Plain".

Want unique and heartfelt Celtic music for your wedding day? Explore these traditional Irish tunes, each with its own special story, to make your big day truly unforgettable. Read on and discover the Irish tunes perfect for celebrating love and unity.

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Down By the Salley Gardens

With its gentle appeal that fits well with the romantic atmosphere of a wedding, 'Down By The Salley Gardens' stands out as an excellent choice for such important occasions. This traditional Irish tune, filled with poetry and melody, carries a beauty that speaks of love and longing. It was written by the celebrated Irish poet, W. B. Yeats, and later paired with the melody of a traditional Irish song, 'The Maids of Mourne Shore'. Its soft rhythm and strong emotional pull make it a fitting addition to a wedding's music selection.

Historically, the term "salley" refers to willow trees, symbolizing flexibility and resilience in marriage. The song's lyrical and emotional tones can set a touching atmosphere when played instrumentally during the processional. Its smooth rhythm evokes a strong emotional connection, making "Down By The Salley Gardens" a memorable choice for any wedding's musical lineup.

We invite you to listen to the tune and feel its enduring melody resonate with you:

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If you listened to Celtri in the video above, they have a dedicated album for Irish Wedding music. By clicking this link, you'll be directed to their album on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Zyf2T3

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Wild Mountain Thyme

Full of heartfelt sentiment and perfectly suited to enhance the loving atmosphere at weddings, "Wild Mountain Thyme", also known as "Will Ye Go, Lassie, Go?", has long been a favorite choice in traditional folk music. This melody dates back to the early 19th century and was written by Francis McPeake, a member of a renowned musical family from Northern Ireland.

Laden with the romantic imagery of blooming wildflowers and a Scottish summer, the song encapsulates a declaration of enduring love and a proposal to become one with nature in a place full of tranquility and beauty. Its inviting melody and captivating lyrics make it a timeless choice for romantic occasions.

Whether performed by a folk band during the ceremony or played by a string quartet at the reception, the beautiful, lilting melody of "Wild Mountain Thyme" adds a touch of traditional charm and warmth to weddings, making a couple's special day even more memorable.

We invite you to listen to "Wild Mountain Thyme" to truly appreciate its beautiful melody:

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Planxty Irwin

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Planxty Irwin," reflecting the classic nature of traditional Irish music, serves as an appropriate selection for wedding occasions. This piece by the well-known Irish harpist Turlough O'Carolan, dating from the 18th century, has an air of sophistication and is suited for important parts of the ceremony such as the procession or the signing of the register.

O'Carolan, widely regarded as one of Ireland's greatest composers, crafted this piece as a tribute to Colonel John Irwin, hence the name "Planxty Irwin". Recognized for its soothing melody and rhythmic grace, this tune is often played on the harp, but it's equally compelling when performed with other traditional Irish instruments.

Having this classic tune for a wedding reflects an appreciation for Irish history and a love for melodies that stand the test of time. Its gentle rhythm can guide the heartfelt moments with an understated beauty that resonates deeply with those in attendance.

We invite you to listen to the elegance of "Planxty Irwin" here:

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If you are curious to learn more about the works and life of Turlough O'Carolan, here is a selection of CDs and books. By clicking this link, you'll be directed to Amazon: https://amzn.to/47RQI0N

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Be Thou My Vision

For couples wanting a song with historical and spiritual depth for their wedding, "Be Thou My Vision" is an excellent option. Originating from the 8th century and brought into English in the early 20th century by Mary Byrne, this hymn shares a meaningful message about trust in divine guidance.

Originally a traditional Irish tune known as "Slane", the melody offers an emotional undertone that suits solemn and joyful occasions alike, making it ideal for weddings. The composition can set an intimate, spiritual atmosphere during the ceremony, whether played instrumentally for the processional or sung as a hymn.

This hymn represents a commitment to unity and divine guidance in the journey that a couple is about to embark on. Its soothing melody and centuries-old lyrics add a meaningful, spiritual element to the wedding, linking the present with the vast history of human devotion.

Have a listen to the historic tune, "Be Thou My Vision" here:

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You'll be surprised at the number of Christian Hymns with Celtic origins! Here are a few albums on Amazon that feature these hymns. By clicking this link, you'll be directed to Amazon: https://amzn.to/3XCeSri

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Caledonia

Uniquely evocative and stirring, "Caledonia" offers a splendid musical choice for a wedding ceremony. Composed by Dougie MacLean in 1977, it has grown to become something of an unofficial anthem of Scotland, the lands fondly referred to as "Caledonia" in the ancient times.

Written out of a sense of longing while MacLean was abroad, "Caledonia" weaves a spell of love and deep-seated affection for one's homeland. When applied to a wedding setting, the heartfelt emotion in the lyrics can easily be reinterpreted to represent the deep bond between the couple.

Performed as an instrumental during the ceremony or as the couple's first dance, this magnetic ballad resonates with attendees, sparking feelings of nostalgia, love, and a sense of belonging. Choosing this song for the wedding day is to opt for a piece that invokes a powerful emotional and geographical connection, and brilliantly illustrates the deep bonds of love being celebrated.

Listen to the evocative and stirring tune of "Caledonia":

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Sí Bheag, Sí Mór

"Si Bheag Si Mhor", which translates to "the small fairy hill and the big fairy hill", is an enchanting and timeless piece with a rich history, making it a fitting selection for a wedding. This Irish tune was composed by the highly-regarded blind harpist Turlough O'Carolan in the late 17th century. As his first composition, it holds a distinct place in the treasury of traditional Irish music.

O'Carolan was inspired by the legends of two Irish fairy hills engaged in battle, yet the melody itself is gentle, with an ethereal quality that beautifully complements the joy and romance of a wedding. Its lilting rhythm and soothing tones create a dreamy atmosphere that emphasizes the magical, otherworldy sentiment that often surrounds such important moments.

"Si Bheag Si Mhor" played as an instrumental piece lends a touch of ancient beauty and timeless charm to the wedding day. The tender melody, steeped in Irish folklore and musical heritage, weaves a spellbinding aura, making it an unforgettable addition to your celebration.

Give "Si Bheag Si Mhor" a listen to appreciate its timeless melody:

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If you are curious to learn more about the works and life of Turlough O'Carolan, here is a selection of CDs and books. By clicking this link, you'll be directed to Amazon: https://amzn.to/47RQI0N

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Inisheer

Steeped in the sentimental cadences of Irish music, the piece "Inisheer" provides an ideal soundtrack for a wedding ceremony. This emotional tune was composed by Thomas Walsh, and it finds its namesake in one of the smallest Aran Islands situated off the Irish coast.

Reflecting the peaceful beauty and calm of the island, "Inisheer" effectively creates a romantic atmosphere. This melody can be played on a variety of traditional instruments like the Irish tin whistle, accordion, fiddle, or harp, bringing an authentic touch to any event.

Choosing "Inisheer" as a musical accompaniment at a wedding exudes feelings of calm, deep love, and continuity. Its rhythmic sway and emotional depth are certain to captivate guests and conjure up feelings of unity and enduring affection, elegantly tying the present moment of commitment to the timeless beauty of Ireland.

Enjoy the calming tune of "Inisheer":

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Marion Maclean of Eoligarry

"Marion Maclean of Eoligarry" is a captivating composition that beautifully embodies the spirit of love and unity at a wedding ceremony. Composed by renowned Scottish musician Colin Melville, this serene and eloquent tune is named after Eoligarry, a picturesque location on the Isle of Barra.

Although not originally composed for weddings, the soothing tune and heartfelt beat of this piece make it a fitting choice for celebrating love and commitment. Its gentle appeal connects with the emotions between the couple, creating a musical narrative that engages everyone present.

Choosing this song for your wedding not only honors the cultural background of Scottish music but also brings in a melody that speaks to eternal romance. Its serene tune, suggestive of beautiful scenes and soft moments, provides a memorable setting for the most significant day of your life.

Listen to the emotional composition, "Marion MacLean of Eoligarry", here:

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The Level Plain (Magh Seola)

"The Level Plain" or "Magh Seola", is a soul-stirring Irish melody that beautifully captures the essence of love, promise, and unity, making it an idyllic choice for a wedding soundtrack. This piece was composed by Gerard Fahy, a celebrated musician from Ballinakill, Ireland.

Named after Magh Seola, the site of an ancient battle in western Ireland, the tune holds historical importance. It evokes imagery of the calm yet striking terrain, reflecting stories of bravery, honor, and lasting love.

Selecting "The Level Plain" (Magh Seola) for a wedding highlights the enduring nature of the vows exchanged. Fahy's piece not only delivers soothing and romantic sounds, but also elegantly combines the emotional resonance of a wedding with Celtic folklore. Its inclusion in the ceremony sets a memorable scene that reflects the majesty of ancient Ireland and complements the unfolding love story at the altar.

Listen to the melody of "The Level Plain" (Magh Seola) here:

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Conclusion

In conclusion, traditional Irish tunes bring a wealth of emotional depth and cultural significance, making them ideal choices for wedding ceremonies. Each piece, filled with history and folklore, brings its own story that melds with the couple's love story on their special day. From the gentle melodies of "Sí Bheag, Sí Mór" to the homage to the land in "Caledonia," these tunes underscore the importance of the day, creating an atmosphere filled with love, unity, and beauty that feels eternal.

By choosing traditional Irish music for your wedding, you not only honor the cultural heritage of Ireland and Scotland but also create an atmosphere that will resonate with everyone present. The melodies, filled with romance, commitment, and the spirit of the land, will transform your wedding celebration into an unforgettable experience.

As you move towards married life, let these Irish tunes blend smoothly with the emotions of your special day. From the processional to the reception, these pieces provide a beautiful and moving musical backdrop that will touch the hearts of all your guests.

Having considered the beauty of these traditional Irish tunes, think about including them in your wedding to bring an element of ancient elegance and a sense of enduring love to your celebration.

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For a more thorough introduction to Celtic music, the NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Celtic Music furnishes an A-to-Z glossary of musical terminology, lists of essential CDs, a history of the art form and its profound influence on modern music, and profiles of notable musicians. Find out more through this link on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4gpW5rL