Why I Love Singing at Funerals
When I tell people that I love singing at funerals, I often get a strange look. It’s not something people expect to hear — and understandably so. But when I explain what I mean, most people quickly understand that it’s not about loving loss, grief, or sadness. It’s about something far deeper.
Funerals are, in my opinion, one of the most meaningful and sacred types of ceremonies we hold.
They’re not about one moment or one event — they’re about an entire life. They’re a space where people gather to celebrate someone’s full story: who they were, the impact they had, how they loved, how they were loved, and all the little things that made them who they were.
To be able to contribute something — even something small — to that moment is a profound privilege.
Music has this incredible ability to express what words sometimes can’t. It can comfort, uplift, hold space for sorrow, and help people feel seen in their grief. As a singer, I get to bring that to families in one of their most vulnerable moments, and I don’t take that lightly.
Very often, a family will request a specific piece of music — sometimes a favourite song of the person who passed, sometimes something meaningful to the family, and sometimes a song chosen for the words that speak perfectly to the moment - for when the coffin is leaving the church. To be able to sing their song in that moment — to offer comfort through a melody that meant something to them in life — as they are being carried on their final journey, to their final resting place, is an indescribable honour.
I think of it this way: every single one of us will have a funeral someday. As morbid as that might sound, it’s a part of life. And when my time comes, I would love to think that someone might be there to provide that same comfort and care to my own loved ones. To hold them with music. To honour my story. To bring a little light into the room.
That’s why I love singing at funerals.
It’s not about the occasion — it’s about the people. It’s about love, memory, and connection. It’s about the privilege of helping people say goodbye through song.
If this resonates with you, or if you know someone who would understand this feeling, I’d be so grateful if you shared this post with them.
