For better or worse, certain classical pieces have become standard and predictable fare for weddings, and apart from the merits of given works in their original contexts, their familiarity in nuptial ceremonies make them expected selections for this package from Somerset Entertainment. The program contains conventional favorites by Pachelbel, Bach, Vivaldi, Wagner, and seven other composers, that are regularly used as processional and recessional music, as well as offerings that are perhaps suitable for meditations and other quiet parts of a service. The CD is packaged with a booklet containing readings and verses, and the attractive cloth cover gives it the appearance of a wedding album. Where this collection may disappoint is in the adult contemporary arrangements by
Daniel May, performed by the
Avalon Consort, which are about as sugar-coated and soft-focused as can be imagined without veering into soft pop elevator music. The music is still recognizable, but the wordless vocals, wispy flute, shimmering Celtic harp, glistening piano arpeggios, and schmaltzy strings make these tracks almost too sweet for consumption. Even so, there are listeners who will find this disc pretty and not object to the reworking of these perennials or the album's crossover quality. ~ Blair Sanderson