Music holds a unique power – to comfort, to remember, and to connect. Its ability to express emotions that words cannot is especially powerful during a funeral. Through melody, we can honor the departed and express feelings that are often too difficult to articulate.
The tradition of playing music at funerals is ancient and deeply rooted. Whether through live performances or carefully selected songs from popular funeral playlists, music has always been an essential part of saying goodbye. Whether it’s a beloved song, a nostalgic tune, or lyrics that seem to speak directly to the person, what matters most is that the music resonates with the departed spirit.
To help guide your choices, there are top 10 or even top 100 lists of songs that are commonly played at funerals. Among the most popular are Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, Ave Maria (in various versions), Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton, and Mag Ik Dan Bij Jou by Claudia de Breij. The right music can bring to life the essence of who someone was.
Interestingly, many people already know exactly what music they want at their own funeral. Research shows that over half of the Dutch population has made their music choices in advance. Younger generations often choose songs by Coldplay, while older generations prefer classical pieces by Bach for example. But maybe My Way by Frank Sinatra, Angels by Robbie Williams, or Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen are more fitting for you?
An essential element
Music has the power to take us back to cherished moments with your loved one who passed away. Carefully chosen songs can transform a funeral into a deeply personal and meaningful ceremony. This feeling is even more profound when a family member or close friend performs the music live. Music can also enhance speeches and photo slideshows, helping to create a richer, more emotional experience to commemorate your loved one.
While mourning often brings sadness, it can also bring beauty. A life may have ended, but memories live on – and music helps us preserve and celebrate those memories. In some cases, music even brings laughter. For example, if the departed deliberately chose an unexpected, humorous, or even loud song, it can create lighthearted moments that stay with everyone. Some may prefer classical or folk music, while others seek something more modern or personal. Ultimately, the perfect musical farewell is unique to the individual, but one thing is certain: music – in whatever form – is a vital part of an unforgettable funeral.
Unity with nature
Natural burials are gaining popularity in the Netherlands. The idea of returning one’s body to the earth and enriching it for future generations is a powerful, sustainable choice. Even at a funeral at a natural burial site, music plays a special role. An acoustic performance in nature can create an unforgettable atmosphere. Imagine voices carried by the wind, guitar chords blending with the rustling of trees, birdsong, and the distant sound of a stream. Choosing a natural burial often stems from a desire for unity with nature. By incorporating music in this setting, you create an even more meaningful experience.
Products like those from Loop Biotech align with this philosophy, as they biodegrade and return to nature within 45 days. This sustainable approach allows you to continue contributing to biodiversity and nourishing the earth – even after death. Walking through the natural space where your loved one rests, while hearing the music from the funeral, offers a deeply moving, lasting experience. This place will always hold a special part of your memory.