Music selection

Creating a personal and meaningful tribute

Music has a way of expressing what words sometimes cannot. It can bring comfort, reflect memories and gently honour a life.

At Thompson Brothers & Sons, Craig and Simon will guide you through each step, helping you choose music that feels personal, respectful and meaningful for you and your family.

Where music can be included

Music can be included at different points during the service, such as:

  • as guests arrive

  • during a quiet moment of reflection

  • alongside a reading or eulogy

  • during a visual or photo tribute

  • as the coffin enters or leaves the chapel

  • at the close of the service

Some families choose one piece of music, while others include several. There is no right or wrong — only what feels right for you.

Accepted music formats

Different venues have different requirements, and we will guide you based on your chosen location. Most crematoria and venues can accept:

  • digital audio files

  • CDs with track details

  • USB memory sticks

  • approved digital playlists

  • live musicians (arranged in advance)

If you would like live music, such as piano, organ, guitar, strings, choir or a soloist, we can help arrange this with care and attention.

Choosing the right music

Families often find it helpful to think about:

  • a favourite song or artist

  • a hymn or spiritual piece

  • music linked to hobbies or interests

  • instrumental or classical selections

  • songs played often at home or during important moments

  • music that reflects personality — calm, uplifting or reflective

Many families choose gentle music for arrival, something personal during reflection, and a warm or uplifting piece to close the service.

Religious and non-religious options

We can guide you with:

  • traditional hymns

  • contemporary religious music

  • non-religious or reflective pieces

  • instrumental versions of well-known songs

  • cultural or personal musical traditions

All selections will be carefully checked to ensure they are suitable for your chosen venue.

Providing your music

To allow time for preparation, we ask for music to be provided at least a few days before the service. Music can be shared via:

  • email

  • USB or CD

  • a written list for musicians or organists

  • approved streaming links (where available)

We will take care of all arrangements, so everything runs smoothly on the day.

A simple guide to structure

Some families find it helpful to follow a simple structure:

  • arrival — gentle or reflective music

  • reflection — a personal or meaningful piece

  • committal — quiet background music

  • departure — something peaceful or uplifting

We are always here to help you build something that feels right.

Young singer playing acoustic guitar and creating music with electronic tools

Here to help

Whether you choose one meaningful piece or a full selection of music, everything will be arranged with care and attention.

Our role is to give you reassurance, so you can focus on remembering someone special.

We are here to guide you — one step at a time.