“Many factors could be considered when planning an event. “What to wear” comes to mind…

and, “let’s go shopping!”

Yes, creativity is quite spontaneous…

Just go with it.”

Eric Zimmermann

Elegant Music 323-270-3650

Vision of the Client and…

…getting the music just right.

It is a lot of fun to talk with someone about music they like; it’s an adventure of discovery. I have found it is always productive to speak directly to the client. The value of a telephone conversation cannot be over estimated. During the course of the conversation the clients ideas, comments and concerns are very important.

Decorating with Candles and Flowers. Party at Spago Beverly Hills

Music is personal. Here are some suggestions of what could be discussed when thinking about music for your special occasion:

What instruments do you like?

What songs do you like?

Please tell me about the styles of music you like.

Era of music.

Genre of music.

Television Show Themes.

Motion Picture Themes.

Video Game Music

Anime Themes

Instrumental music or music with vocals?

Dance music?  –  DJ?  –   Live Band?

Age group of the audience.

Specific song requests.

See video: Parties Holidays & Christmas

Further points to consider:

The occasion.

Theme of the event.

James Bond Theme?  Bridgerton Theme?  Barbie Dance Party?

The Location of the event (venue). Its existing decor may impose a design and suggest a “Theme” or even a style of music.

Any restrictions the location may have: “indoors/outdoors” “no amplified music” “no dancing” “music must stop by 11:00 PM.”

Also consider:

Time of the year.

Purpose of the event

How many guests?

Planned Activities.

What was done for previous events of this kind? How did it go?

Note: Video references or pictures provided by the client representing their vision are very helpful.

A Few Guided Questions

There may be other factors influencing choice of music that are revealed through a short conversation.

During a bridal show I asked two women listening nearby for any request that they would like to hear. I think they started thinking about it too much and after a while felt embarrassed that they couldn’t think of anything. This being a bridal show I asked, “Would you like to hear something for a Cocktail Hour or for the Wedding Ceremony?”

“Wedding Ceremony” was their answer.

Then I asked, would you like to hear something like a big “Ta-da!” or something “Romantic and Flowy?”

“Romantic and Flowy” was their answer.

I was just about to play “The Skye Boat Theme” from the romantic series “Outlander” when they enthusiastically requested “Can’t Help Falling In Love”.  I have a beautiful arrangement of this iconic love song that we performed for them.

Having the opportunity to speak about music and using a few guided questions, the right song can always be found.

Please see:  I had an Epiphany! Gamers and Anime. (A True Story)

Also see: Downton Abbey High Tea @ The Langham

Food, Design, Music, Timing and Announcements = Presentation

An event starts with music and as the evening progresses the music also develops. No mater how simple an event is, creating an itinerary sketch with the host reveals much information about timing and presentation valuable to the success of the event.

Please see video: The Itinerary SKETCH by Elegant Music Video

Your ideas are important.

I look forward to speaking with you.

Sincerely, Eric Zimmermann

• DJ

• Master of Ceremonies

• Pianist

• Bandleader

• Host of Wedding & Event Podcast

Elegant Music 323-270-3650