Music is an important part of an event. It sets the tone, provides entertainment, and can make or break a crowd’s overall experience.
There are many musical acts to choose from, from rappers that are Christian to groups who specialize in acapella.
How do you know what type of music is right for you?
Consider your audience
First and foremost, the music is present for the benefit of the crowd. When thinking about what type of music to play, consider who you are playing it for. Is it a group of teenagers who want the best in modern pop? Is it an older set who want the classics, or a mix of people who want to hear music across all decades?
Outside of their music tastes, you’ll want to also determine a crowd’s demeanor. There’s a big difference between an event that invites folks to the dance floor to get down to some tunes and those who want classical music to serve as the background at a sit-down dinner and auction.
When you envision your event, sub in the different forms of musical entertainment available in your mind and see what one feels the best.
Think about the venue.
Much like your audience, you will want a musical style that fits the venue. Dance halls and large auditoriums do well with rock, pop, and dance hits, leaving room for people to get on the floor.
Smaller venues are ill-suited for loud acts. Venues with strict dress codes and rules are better equipped for quitter genres that can be enjoyed in a leisurely way.
Ask what sound capabilities there are.
With music comes equipment. This could be speakers and a place to put a turntable for a DJ, or a full stage set up with lights and microphones for a band.
When booking the event ask the venue what types of entertainment they are capable of hosting. Make sure the proper electrical needs are present, and ask about the acoustics in the building. Some places simply aren’t meant for loud noise.
You will also want to check with our hired entertainment for their on-site needs to make sure the venue can accommodate them.
Look at your event’s goals.
Music can help you work toward the goal of your event. If you are launching an innovative new product and looking for investors or buyers, you want to set up an atmosphere that’s exciting and daring. Lean towards bass and drum-heavy music for that type of scenario.
If the event is public and you’re looking to draw in a crowd, play music that speaks to that demographic. The older generation will likely not come running towards the fast-paced rap and pop music of today.
Go over your agenda.
Will there be periods of time where activity is going on but some background noise is needed? Are there blocks where you want guests to be directly engaged and entertained?
Determine the pivotal points of the event and how they can be best served by musical accompaniment.
