Wedding Planning Guide
Jewish Wedding Music — A Complete Guide to Every Musical Moment
From the Badeken through the last dance, what music is played when at a Jewish wedding, and how to choose the right songs for each moment.
Planning the music for a Jewish wedding can feel overwhelming; there are so many moments, so many song options, and every family has different traditions. This guide walks you through each musical moment of the wedding in order, explains what typically happens, and gives you a sense of what songs are commonly chosen. Whether you're a Chosson and Kallah preparing for your big day, or a family member helping with planning, this is your roadmap.
Section 1
Before the Chuppah
Badeken
The Badeken is the veiling ceremony where the Chosson sees the Kallah before the chuppah. A song is usually played as he approaches; Vayehi Bishurun Melech or Od Yishama are most common, though it can often be another meaningful niggun or a contemporary Jewish song.
Pre-Chuppah processional
As guests settle and the chuppah ceremony is about to begin, background music plays. This is often a traditional piece like Barditchev's Song or a soft niggun.
Section 2
The Chuppah
Chosson walking in
The Chosson walks to the chuppah to a song, usually something very meaningful. Common choices include songs like Odeh/Ekev, Birchas Habonim, Machnisei, Liros Bunim, and many others.
Mi Adir
Traditionally sung as the Chosson stands under the chuppah waiting for the Kallah. There are many versions, some traditional, some contemporary. Common versions: Mordechai Shapiro, Eli Gerstner, Yaakov Shwekey, Itzik Dadya, Yoni Z, and Aish.
Kallah walking in
The most emotional moment of the chuppah, the Kallah walks in to her song. The Kallah chooses something deeply personal here.
Mi Bon Siach
Traditionally sung as the Kallah goes around the Chussen under the chuppah. Like Mi Adir, there are multiple well-known versions. Common versions: Shalsheles, Lev Tahor, Yaakov Shwekey, Ohad Moskowitz, Simcha Leiner, Derech Achim, and Gur.
Other processions — who walks to what
Each family member typically walks in to a specific song. You can assign the same song to a few or choose different songs for: Chosson's grandparents, Kallah's grandparents, Chosson's siblings, Kallah's siblings, Chosson's parents, Kallah's parents, and the flower girls.
Im Eshkochech
A traditional song sung under the chuppah right before or after the breaking of the glass. There are many beloved versions. Common versions: Shlomo Carlebach, Yaakov Shwekey, Shloime Dachs, Shlomo Yida Rechnitz (most popular today).
Post-Chuppah / Od Yishoma
The song played as the couple walks out together, joyful and celebratory. Od Yishoma is the traditional choice, but even for Od Yishoma, there are different melodies for options. Some couples choose something else.
Section 3
The Meal
Dinner music
Background music during the meal sets the tone. Your musician will choose appropriate songs, but if there are specific songs you'd love to hear during dinner, this is the place to mention them.
Intro(s)
Some couples have a special entrance into the reception hall with a specific song. If you'd like an intro, let your musician know what song you have in mind.
Section 4
Dancing
First dance requests
You don't need to plan the full dance set, just mention a few songs you'd love to hear for sure. Your musician will build the set around your taste.
Second dance
Same as above, a few favorites is enough.
Mezinka
If either set of parents is marrying off their last child, the Mezinka dance is performed.
Do Not Play
If there are any songs you specifically don't want played at your wedding, make sure to mention them to your musician.