Instrumental music has an emotional appeal unrivaled by any other genre of music. The pure beauty of music without the presence of words has the power to evoke profound emotional responses ranging from sorrow to laughter and happy tears. 

On a day as sentimental and important as your wedding day, it is only fitting that you choose music that stirs strong feelings and creates fond memories.  

We’ve created a list of the most soulful, danceable, and tender instrumental wedding music for all the phases of your wedding day.

From acoustic variations of famous songs to modern renditions of classical masterpieces, we’ve got a bit of everything for everyone!

“Perfect” – Brooklyn Duo

What playlist is complete without an Ed Sheeran song?

More to the point, what’s a wedding playlist without a stripped-back instrumental rendition of an Ed Sheeran song?

The Brooklyn Duo’s instrumental cover of “Perfect” is a beautiful combination of the piano and cello; the ‘perfect’ choice for a first dance.

“Nightingale”- Saule Kilaite

The “Nightingale” track by Saule Kilaite mostly uses G major in its sound production.  Fun fact: this note is so popular that over 10.7 percent of the songs on Spotify use it!

You should consider this a plus because a familiar tune is always a crowd-pleaser. The instrumental song would be ideal for your ceremony.

“River Flows in You” – RAY

This rendition of Yiruma’s moving piano original might remind you of some of the romantic scenes in the big hit fantasy movie series, Twilight.

This instrumental cover is an acoustic arrangement that gives it a more rustic feel, especially fitting if you’re planning an outdoor wedding. 

“The Cello Song”- The Piano Guys

A modern twist on Bach’s Cello Suite No.1 might just be what your wedding needs while guests are arriving.

“The Cello Song” by The Piano Guys pays homage to its original with an enriching addition of beats. The song actually adds seven more cello instrumentals to the mix, taking it to the next level.

“Ave Maria”- Brooklyn Duo

If you’re looking for a timeless classic, the Brooklyn Duo’s instrumental version of “Ave Maria” will bring a smoother flow to your walk down the aisle.

The traditional tune is bound to induce some tears from the crowd as the gorgeous bride delicately makes her way to the groom to the sounds of this equally delicate instrumental.

“Tale as Old as Time” – RAY

“Tale As Old As Time” instrumentally performed by RAY is a beautiful version of the “Beauty and the Beast” classic.

We think this version would mesh well with the toasts portion of the wedding. Your maid of honor and best man will certainly thank you for adding some extra warmth to their heartfelt speeches.

“Shallow” – Brooklyn Duo

A hit from the award-winning movie, ‘A Star Is Born,’ this passion-fueled instrumental version could be a great option for your first dance.

If your first dance involves a more technical ballroom approach, this song will be an even better fit.

While, if you’re looking for a slower song to dance to, piano instrumentals alone can make a huge difference.

“Canon in D” – Brooklyn Duo

Johann Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” is a wedding staple, known for its serene and joyous melody.

This effortless piano and cello rendition is bound to make an impact at your wedding ceremony. 

 Be prepared to see some glistening eyes in the crowd!

“La Vie En Rose” – Brooklyn Duo

Edith Piaf was a French icon who represented all things passionate and tenacious.

You definitely won’t regret adding Brooklyn Duo’s romantic instrumental version of Piaf’s “La Vie En Rose” to your wedding playlist!

You might find this musical masterpiece is a fit for your first dance.

“Yellow” – Brooklyn Duo

Originally played by Coldplay, the song is meant to be played for the person you’re most devoted to, in this case, your spouse.

Brooklyn Duo’s version is familiar but has a classical take. We recommend it for your first dance or the group dancing portion of your wedding. 

It could also fit as an entry song for your bridesmaid, groomsmen, and guests to join you on the dance floor.

“Love Me Like You Do” – Brooklyn Duo

An intimate instrumental song like Brooklyn Duo’s “Love Me Like You Do” could give you the idyllic first dance you’re after.

You can also play this song for your guests to dance to. It’s an ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s bound to get everyone on their feet.

“Over the Rainbow/Simple Gifts” – The Piano Guys

This instrumental version of “Over the Rainbow/Simple Gifts” is highly versatile and would be a fit for most portions of your wedding.

If you’re planning a beach wedding, this instrumental would be sublime. It would work especially well on the dance floor since it has a nice beat to it.

You can also play it during your cake cutting and bouquet toss. See, versatile! 

“What a Wonderful World” – Brooklyn Duo

Louis Armstrong’s truly timeless classic, “What a Wonderful World” is a song beloved by all.

A soulful song meant to bring hope, Brooklyn Duo’s instrumental version does an impeccable job at livening Armstrong’s positive spirit.

We think it would fit nicely into your toasts portion of the wedding.

“Just the Way You Are” – The Piano Guys

 Picture this, dim lights with some colorful spotlights slowly swirling about and you and your spouse in the middle of the dance floor.

With this flawless instrumental version of Bruno Mars’s “Just the Way You Are” playing in the background, it’d be like something out of a fairytale.

“Because of You” – The Piano Guys

This upbeat instrumental of “Because of You” by The Piano Guys will have your guests twirling on the dance floor in no time.

“Clair De Lune” – Claude Debussy

Did you know that “Claire De Lune’s” original song title was “Promenade Sentimentale,” otherwise known as, ‘sentimental stroll’. It couldn’t be more perfect for your processional!

In fact, this classical Debussy piece exudes so much elegance and poise, it’s a good choice for any stage of your wedding. 

“More Than Words” – The Piano Guys

If you’re looking for a versatile song that could fit in most portions of your wedding, this instrumental song would be a great option.

The tune is more than joyful enough to be played on the dance floor yet also welcoming enough to fill the air when greeting your arrivals.

“La La Land” – Brooklyn Duo

Are you a musicals fan? “La La Land” may turn your dreams of being in a musical into a reality. 

Take a listen to this beautiful instrumental version and consider it for your first dance. 

“I’m Yours” – Vitamin String Quartet

Your guests won’t be able to stop themselves from swaying along to this instrumental cover of Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours.”

This joyful tune will take your guests out of the ceremonial trance and into the reception area for cocktails and dances.

“Here Comes the Bride” – Wagner Bridal Chorus

“Here Comes the Bride” is one of, if not the most, traditional ceremony pieces.

An interesting fact about this song is that it wasn’t originally meant for weddings but an opera piece by Richard Wagner. It just so happened to be sung during a scene where guests usher the bride and groom to their bridechamber!

“Butterfly Waltz” – Brian Crain

The “Butterfly Waltz” is sure to give you butterflies in your stomach as you walk down the aisle.

This elegant and joyful piano piece could also be played during your first dance if you’re a fan of classical music.

“Somewhere Only We Know” – Vitamin String Quartet

This song is originally sung by Keane and has been covered by numerous artists since.

According to the band’s lead vocalist, the song is about becoming stronger from experiences you’ve shared with a special someone in your life.

Vitamin String Quartet’s instrumental cover does this song justice by evoking similar emotions.

We recommend playing this during your ceremony or first dance. As a bonus, you could choose this song for your wedding video’s background music.  

“Unforgettable” – United Guitar Players

Another Nat King Cole instrumental hit to consider adding to your wedding song playlist is “Unforgettable.”

While a good choice for your first dance, we believe your guests would appreciate you playing it for their slow dances as well.

“L-O-V-E” (Instrumental) – Nat King Cole

We just can’t seem to get enough of the iconic Nat King Cole. His music is truly awe-inspiring.

The instrumental version of his “L-O-V-E” could work wonderfully after the ceremony as a recessional song.

If you’re doing a light first dance, this song might also be a decent choice.   

“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” – Georg Erixon

Lion King fans rejoice. If you’re about to wed, this is your moment to shine and play the song that’ll have you catching all the feels.

This Disney-favorite instrumental piece would be effective played during your walk down the aisle or your first dance. A die-hard Mufasa and Sarabi fan might even play the song in both instances!

“Without You” – The Piano Guys

This instrumental cover of “Without You” is a party favorite. We would highly recommend this song during the dancing portion of your wedding.  

“The Way You Look Tonight” (Instrumental) – Frank Sinatra

They don’t call Frank Sinatra “Swoontra” for nothing.

This instrumental version of “The Way You Look Tonight” will certainly have your groom swooning over the way you look.

“Lavender Hills” – Brian Crain

This soft musical piece by Brian Crain would mesh well with any wedding theme.

Use it as a soothing background piece while guests arrive, or as farewell music at the end of the evening.

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Alex Ng

It’s time for ‘The King’s; entrance in this list.

This instrumental version of Elvis’ “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Alex Ng would best work for your ceremonial entrance.

It has all the suitable elements to qualify for a ceremony song, namely: elegance, softness, and romance.

“Beauty and the Beast” – Vesislava

Yep, we included another Disney fan-favorite: “Beauty and the Beast.”

Have yourself a fairytale wedding with a magical soundtrack including this instrumental version of “Beauty and the Beast” by Vesislava.

We think this song is best played during your wedding ceremony since it oozes romance and passion.

“You are the Reason” – Daniel Jang

Daniel Jang’s instrumental, “You are the Reason” would be a perfect prelude to your wedding ceremony.

The original song by Calum Scott is also vastly popular and will resonate with your crowd.

“True Colors” – Brooklyn Duo

The song was initially sung by none other than the infamous Cyndi Lauper. While the song carries a sorrowful meaning, it showcases the importance of acceptance in a relationship, in sickness, and in health.

The instrumental cover by Brooklyn Duo pays a stunning homage to Lauper’s original using the cello and piano.

We see this best played for your wedding procession or first dance.

“A Thousand Years” – VioDance

We think this masterpiece should join you on your journey to the altar.

The instrumental wedding song is instantly recognizable and will undoubtedly make your guests shed a tear at your ceremony.

“Halo” – Brooklyn Duo and Cicely Parnas

If you’re a fan of the queen bee, Beyonce, you may want to use this emotional instrumental cover of “Halo” by Brooklyn Duo in your wedding playlist.

Since you’ll be looking like an angel, it only makes sense to play “Halo” on your walk down the aisle, with all eyes on you.

“Marry Me” – Bridesmaids Quartet

This gentle guitar instrumental version of “Marry Me” by the Bridesmaids Quartet will practically seal the deal during your wedding ceremony.

“Thinking Out Loud” – Daniel Jang

The violin instrumental cover of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” will capture the crowd during your first dance.

We’d especially recommend this song if you and your spouse are particularly talented at ballroom dancing.

“Here Comes the Sun” – Matt Carlson

After you say your I dos, a “Here Comes the Sun” ukulele instrumental by Matt Carlson would positively brighten the wedding ambiance. 

Consider playing it throughout your recessional or cocktail hour.

“From This Moment” – Christopher West

The piano instrumental of Shania Twain’s “From This Moment” gives us all the feels!

It would make for a spectacular first dance song.

“Married Life” – Paul Hankinson

A devoted Pixar fan will pick this song for their wedding procession in a heartbeat.

Strings and piano combine in this stunning instrumental cover of the “Up” song.

Play it as you walk down the aisle or dance your first dance to it; it’s too beautiful not to be included somewhere!

“La Valse D’Amelie” – Benedikt Waldheuer

We think this piano instrumental of “La Valse D’Amelie” is truly mesmerizing.

If you want to wow your guests, a well-planned choreographed first dance to this piece would be a definite showstopper.