The short answer: for the chuppah, the songs most often played are slow, heartfelt pieces such as Birkat Chupa (Ohad Moskowitz), the Four Stanzas (Daled Bavos), Birchas Habayis and Lev Tahor. For the dancing, it's songs like Keitzad Merakdim, Mach A Bracha and OhToToh. Every one is a printable lead sheet here, with the melody, the chords above it and the words underneath, most of them in several keys. Or get the Play It Simple Wedding Collection songbook.
Chuppah songs
| Song | Singer | Keys | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birkat Chupa | Ohad Moskowitz | 4 versions | $5.99 |
| Four Stanzas (Daled Bavos) | Chabad | 6 keys | $14.99 |
| Birchas Habayis | Abie Rotenberg | 6 keys | $4.99 |
| Lev Tahor | Abie Rotenberg | 5 keys | $3.99 |
| Birkat Habonim | Ohad Moskowitz | 3 keys | $5.99 |
| Sh'ma B'ni | Mordechai Ben David | 2 keys | $6.99 |
| The Chuppah Song | Pinny Schachter | 3 keys | $6.99 |
| A Million Dreams | Simchah Leiner | 5 keys | $5.99 |
| Asher Bara | Shlomo Carlebach | 2 keys | $2.99 |
All our chuppah songs are on the Chuppah page.
Wedding dancing songs
| Song | Singer | Keys | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keitzad Merakdim | Mordechai Ben David | 1 version | $3.99 |
| Samcheim | Mordechai Ben David | A minor | $5.99 |
| Mach A Bracha | Shmueli Ungar | 1 version | $6.99 |
| OhToToh | Avraham Fried | 7 keys, plus an easier half-time version | $5.99 |
| Charasho | Benny Friedman | 5 keys | $6.99 |
| Chap A Tentzel | Yisroel Werdyger | 4 keys | $5.99 |
| L'chaim | Simchah Leiner | 2 keys | $4.99 |
| Simcha L'artzecha | Shlomo Carlebach | 2 keys | $2.99 |
| Leshana Habaa | Traditional | A minor, plus an easier half-time version | Free |
See every wedding song on the Wedding page, where you can filter by key, style and singer.
A wedding songbook
The Play It Simple 2019 Wedding Collection puts 30 wedding songs in one book, in paperback or PDF, with easy-to-read melody, chords and lyrics. It's a good fit if you play at simchas often, or you're a family member who wants the songs ready for the wedding week.
Choosing the right key
Most of these songs come in several keys, and the original key (the one on the recording) is marked on the song page. Bands usually play in the original key. If you're accompanying a singer or playing alone, pick the key that sits best for the voice or your instrument. A few songs, such as OhToToh and Leshana Habaa, also have an easier half-time version for newer players. Need a key we don't list? Ask us.
Questions
What songs are played at a Jewish wedding chuppah?
Slow, meaningful songs, often set to verses from the wedding blessings or prayers for the couple: Birkat Chupa, the Four Stanzas (Daled Bavos), Birchas Habayis, Lev Tahor and Asher Bara are favorites. Each one is above as a lead sheet.
What does "Keitzad Merakdim" mean?
"How do we dance before the bride?" The words come from the Talmud's discussion of praising the bride, which is why the song is a wedding-dancing classic.
Is there a Jewish wedding songbook?
Yes: the Play It Simple 2019 Wedding Collection, 30 songs in paperback or PDF.
Can a music teacher share these with students?
Yes, with a teacher license: tick "Add a teacher license" when you add a sheet or songbook to your cart.