Many families ask for a choir to sing at a funeral because that’s usually what everyone has, isn’t it?
Not necessarily. A solo funeral singer (or duo) can be a better option.
Not necessarily. A solo funeral singer (or duo) can be a better option.
Why have singing at a funeral service?
Singing is a natural ‘fit’ for a funeral service. The sound of the human voice can be soothing and healing. It can bring comfort, joy and solace, and is especially effective as a fitting tribute to a departed loved one.
So, if you’re looking for live singing for a funeral service, which is best for you, choir or funeral soloist? Here are five points to bear in mind:
So, if you’re looking for live singing for a funeral service, which is best for you, choir or funeral soloist? Here are five points to bear in mind:
1. Availability On Your Funeral Date
2. Size and Quality of Sound
Where a choir has a large proportion of retired members, they may be available but equally pose a different problem. Though experienced and keen to perform, many are not very strong singers and can sound somewhat shaky. (Sadly, it’s the nature of how our voices age.) As a result, they often create a rather small sound given the number of people. |
A professional singer has the experience, training and vocal ability to make their sound travel to fill a cathedral or large church. They also have the ability to keep the sound personal and intimate, in the smaller locations of crematorium chapels and smaller churches. Whatever the space, rest assured a professional singer will be heard! |
3. Sound Samples
A professional singer will have online sound samples for you to hear, so you can listen whenever you like. You’ll also know beforehand how the singer will sound. Their recorded sound will be eclipsed on the day, as a live performance has something 'extra' that cannot be captured when listening on a website. |
4. Choice Of Music Available
The professional singer will usually have a wider selection of music for you to choose from, including popular songs and musical theatre, as well as religious and sacred items. If you have a request that is not in the singer's current repertoire, they are usually able to locate and learn the music in time for the funeral. Failing that, they should have a suggestion that will be very close to your idea. |
5. Funeral Services Not in Church
Many local church choirs are just that, choirs that sing in one church. They may not be available (or willing) to sing in other churches, or at crematoriums. It’s also worth bearing in mind that crematorium chapels can be smaller spaces, and that a choir will take up a fair amount of room, and that leaves less seats for mourners. |
A professional soloist will be just as happy to sing in a church as a crematorium, or outside by the graveside in a cemetery, or at a burial ground. If they have their own quality backing tracks and wireless speaker system (as we do), your professional funeral singer should be able to sing accompanied almost anywhere. |
Still Not Sure Which To Choose? Talk to Surrey & London Funeral Singers.
Deciding on a singer rather than the standard choir doesn’t have to be a stressful decision! Surrey & London Funeral soloists can help celebrate the life of a loved one, creating fond memories with favourite music. We’ve years of experience in performing in churches, in intimate spaces and for outside opera events (unamplified).
Give us a call to discuss your requirements, as and when you need us.
Give us a call to discuss your requirements, as and when you need us.