
Many factors could be considered when planning an event. “What to wear” comes to mind; let’s go shopping!
Yes, creativity is quite spontaneous.
Eric Zimmermann
Elegant Music 323-270-3650
Vision of the Client
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.
Music is personal. Here are some suggestions of what could be discussed:
What instruments do you like?
What songs do you like.
Style of music.
Era of music.
Genre of music.
Instrumental music?
Music with a vocalist?
Dance music? – DJ? – Live Band?
Age group of the audience.
Song requests.
Further points to consider:
The occasion.
Theme of the event.
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 “Tada!” 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.
Also see: Downton Abbey High Tea @ The Langham
Food, Design, Music and Timing = Presentation
An event starts with music and as the evening progresses so should the music develop. 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: The Itinerary SKETCH by Elegant Music.
Your ideas are important.

I look forward to speaking with you.
Sincerely, Eric Zimmermann
Elegant Music 323-270-3650