In a Church of England funeral the first parts of the service which may be sung are one or more of the first three of the seven funeral sentences. The best-known settings of these seven texts (called Burial Services) are by William Croft, Thomas Morley, Orlando Gibbons and Henry Purcell (from his Funeral Music for Queen Mary). Morley's is the most popular setting of these opening sentences. The other four sentences are not often sung unless there is a graveside Committal at which the choir is present.
After prayers and a reading, a psalm is sung. Often, psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd) is chosen, to the tune of Crimond. There are quite a few other suitable psalms, all of which may be sung to Anglican chant by the choir. Certain of them have been set to more elaborate music, and we can advise depending on your choice of psalm.
One of the most important functions of the choir and organ in a funeral is to lead the congregation in singing hymns. A list of suitable choices of hymn may be found here, although your priest will be able to advise further about your particular needs.
There is a wide variety of anthems which may be included in the funeral service. Since these may be settings of any suitable text, the choice may be a very personal one. A list of suggestions for an anthem may be found here.
John Rutter's 'The Lord bless you and keep you' has become a favourite for inclusion at the Blessing.
At the end of the service (the Dismissal), the choir may sing the Nunc Dimittis (The Song of Simeon). There are many beautiful settings of this text, ranging from short extremely simple to longer works which would form a focus point in the service. Another piece which may be sung at the Committal is a setting of the prayer 'God be in my head', and there are very popular settings by Henry Walford-Davies and John Rutter for four voices.
Organ Music
Before the service, the organist can either improvise or play specified pieces. Unless you have something specific in mind, it is usually best for him to improvise as he can then react appropriately as the beginning of the service approaches. During the service it is usual for him to accompany the hymns, and choral pieces often will include organ accompaniment. At the end of the service, the organist will play a voluntary of your choice. For examples click here.Bach, J.S.: Jesu, joy of man's desiring
Elgar, Edward: Nimrod