funeral music

[Bob]

What do you use or recommend?

[lostinidlewonder]

Something upbeat. It should be a piece that the person likes very much. I actually am told I must play Debussy Sunken Cathedral for my mum's funeral (she is still very healthy)...... what a morbid idea!

[birba]

In my age, we did NOT do upbeat music for a funeral!  But I like the idea, I must say.  I really didn't ask if you were playing the organ or a piano.  I just assumed it was the former.  I don't think the sunken cathedral would go over well on a wurlitzer.  If it's an organ, I would play Bach, Albinoni, Vivaldi, etc.  On a piano, you have a much wider choice, I think.  I think you can also edit some pieces for these occasions, paring them down, if necessary. (e.g. first part of the rain drop prelude, first movement of the moonlight, etc.)  Avoiding big climaxes, maybe.
Interesting question...

[quantum]

Depends on the context.  Is this a religious funeral?  If it is, what is the religion and denomination?

Individual denominations and churches have guidelines on what is acceptable for a funeral.  You may also have to follow a specific Rite of Funerals used in the service.  

Music for a funeral my include the following:
Organ / piano Voluntaries
Service music
Hymns
Anthems


Voluntaries are usually up to the organist / pianist to pick what is appropriate for the occasion.  Service music include things such as the Kyrie and In paradisum.  Talk to the family about favourite hymns, and if they are appropriate to the occasion.  Hymns should be appropriate to the service.  If a cantor or choir is available to you, there may be a place to do anthems.  

Contact the priest for the full outline and details of the service.  Whatever music you choose needs to fit within the liturgy the priest is going to follow.  

Some funerals / memorial services are also more free in structure.  You may have more leeway in these. 

[automorphism]

I've already chosen music for my funeral: Aria from the Goldberg variations, from Glenn Gould's 1982 rendition, the da Capo version. I think it has such finality to it, and it represents the beginning and the end. It's perfect I think.