wedding harpist Devon Carpenter, the Classic Harpist, with a Blevins Harp the Laurel Leaf Harp venus classic harp, at a wedding harp duet for a wedding

Audio Samples

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring

One of J. S. Bach's best-loved compositions, and the final movement of his Cantata Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben (Heart and Mouth and Deed and Life), this piece is very popular for wedding ceremonies.

Played at a moderate tempo, it works well for a processional (and pairs nicely with Pachelbel's "Canon in D" if that piece will also be part of your entrance music). Slightly faster, it becomes a lively recessional, sending the newly-married couple joyfully off to the reception. It is also frequently played during the Christmas season.

This piece can be played on pedal harp or lever harp.  A version of this song recorded with a harp and marimba duet is also available. The trio version below (harp, violin, and cello) was recorded live at a wedding ceremony.

Solo Harp

Harp, Violin, & Cello trio

Testimonials for Devon Carpenter, harpist