There’s nothing quite like the hush that falls as the music begins and everyone turns to see the bride. That first note sets the tone, carries the emotion, and often sparks tears before the ceremony has even started. Couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to songs to walk down the aisle to, with everything from classical favourites to modern ballads topping playlists. Add the magic of live musicians, and the moment becomes even more moving.

Here’s our guide to the songs couples are choosing most often and the live entertainment that can make the walk down the aisle one of the most powerful parts of the day.

Setting the Scene for the Big Entrance

The bridal entrance is a defining moment. It’s the part guests remember long after the reception is over. For the couple, it’s often the point where the nerves settle and the reality of “this is really happening” hits home. Music plays a huge role in this moment. The right choice will highlight the emotion, suit the setting, and pace the walk beautifully.

Songs Brides in Australia are Choosing for Their Entrance

Timeless Classical Pieces

Some songs never fade. They carry centuries of tradition and instantly signal the importance of the moment.

• Wagner’s Bridal Chorus (better known as “Here Comes the Bride”) remains a staple for brides who want that regal, unmistakable cue.
• Pachelbel’s Canon in D is perhaps the most requested classical piece in Australia. Its flowing progression works beautifully with live strings or harp.
• Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary brings a bright, triumphant edge that suits larger venues or churches.
• Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring offers a softer, reverent tone — a favourite for church or chapel weddings.
• Mendelssohn’s Wedding March is often reserved for the recessional, but some couples love its celebratory feel right at the start.

These classics work especially well in formal indoor venues, though string quartets often bring them to life in gardens too.

Modern Love Ballads and Pop Favourites

Many couples today lean towards heartfelt ballads that feel deeply personal. These songs are often chosen because the lyrics tell the couple’s story or because they’ve shared a special moment with that tune playing in the background.

• Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love remains the number one wedding song across Australia, often performed as a stripped-back acoustic version.
• Christina Perri’s A Thousand Years has become a modern classic — slow, emotional, and beautifully paced for that steady walk down the aisle.
• Ed Sheeran’s Perfect is a favourite for both first dances and processional music, thanks to its tender imagery.
• John Legend’s All of Me is another staple, loved for its soaring piano and heartfelt lyrics.
• James Arthur’s Say You Won’t Let Go and Calum Scott’s You Are the Reason have both risen quickly in popularity, their acoustic style fitting perfectly with live performers.
• Old favourites like Etta James’ At Last and Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Over the Rainbow remain go-tos for couples wanting something soulful or dreamy.

Whether sung live or played through a sound system, these songs create the kind of atmosphere that has guests reaching for tissues.

Instrumental Versions and Covers

Instrumentals are often chosen for couples who want the melody without the distraction of lyrics.

• Pachelbel’s Canon in D and Brian Crain’s Butterfly Waltz are elegant and timeless.
• String or acoustic covers of modern songs, such as A Thousand Years on violin or Lover on piano, blend the familiar with ceremony-friendly tones.
• Soundtrack pieces like the Glasgow Love Theme from Love Actually or The Secret Wedding from Braveheart add a cinematic feel to the moment.

An instrumental version of a favourite pop song can be an ideal compromise when lyrics feel too modern or upbeat for the setting.

Live Entertainment For the Bridal Entrance

Recorded tracks do the job, but nothing quite matches the emotion of live musicians. Watching an instrument played in real time makes the moment even more memorable, and in Australia, there are plenty of talented performers to choose from.

Acoustic Guitarists and Duos

With their warm, relaxed sound, acoustic guitarists and duos are perfect for outdoor weddings. Many brides choose to walk down the aisle to a guitarist gently picking the melody of a modern love song. Add a vocalist and the performance becomes even more personal.

Harpists

A harpist instantly creates a fairy-tale atmosphere with its ambient entertainment. The cascading notes are soft, dreamy, and unlike anything else. Harpists often perform classical favourites but can also adapt modern ballads into their repertoire.

Violinists

The violin’s soulful sound makes it a stirring choice. Whether solo or paired with piano or guitar, violinists can cover everything from Bach to Ed Sheeran. The way a violin “sings” a melody can bring goosebumps with every step down the aisle.

String Quartets and Trios

For couples who want elegance and versatility, a string quartet offers it all. These ensembles can play traditional marches or modern pop songs arranged for strings, filling both indoor halls and garden spaces with rich, full sound.

Unique and Cultural Touches

Some couples choose something a little different to reflect their heritage or personality. Bagpipers, gospel choirs, or even didgeridoo performances have been used in Australian ceremonies to add cultural depth or a dramatic edge. These choices leave a lasting impression on guests and often mean a lot to families, creating an unforgettable guest experience.

Indoor and Outdoor Considerations

Music carries differently depending on the setting. Indoors, strings and harp resonate beautifully in chapels and halls. Outdoors, instruments may need light amplification to carry over background noise, and shade or cover to protect musicians and their instruments. Timing is also critical — many couples work with musicians to ensure their entrance aligns with a particular lyric or crescendo.

Crafting a Personal and Memorable Moment

When it comes down to it, the best song to walk down the aisle to is the one that feels right for you. Maybe it’s the song that played on your first date, a classical piece you’ve always loved, or a ballad that speaks to your journey together. Live performers can adapt the tempo to match your steps, pause for dramatic effect, and ensure the music swells at just the right moment. It’s these details that make the entrance truly memorable.

There’s No Shortage Of Beautiful Songs To Walk Down The Aisle To

From timeless classical works to modern ballads and instrumental covers, there’s no shortage of beautiful songs to walk down the aisle to. Add in the magic of live entertainment, whether it’s a gentle acoustic guitar, an elegant harp, or a soaring string quartet, and the moment becomes even more powerful.

If you’d like help creating a truly memorable bridal entrance, Onstage Entertainment can connect you with the perfect performers for your ceremony. Get in touch to explore live wedding entertainment options that will make your walk down the aisle every bit as magical as you’ve imagined.