“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 clients express ideas, make comments and have concerns and these are very important.
Ideas come quickly.
I have found that a brief discussion with the client about the timeline of the event and making an itinerary sketch helps to focus the discussion about music.
Please see video: The Itinerary SKETCH by Elegant Music Video
Decorating with Candles and Flowers. Party at Spago Beverly Hills
Music is personal. Here are some suggestions of how to start the conversation when planning music for a special occasion:
What songs do you like?
Please tell me about the styles of music you like.
Era of music: 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s…
Genre “category” of music: Classical, Jazz, Hip Hop, Anime…
Motion Picture Themes.
What instruments do you like?
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).
The 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”
“electricity not available”
“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 in communicating what is wanted.
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. It was the right song; they were very excited.
Yes, music is personal.
Having the opportunity to speak directly with the client about music
and using a few guided questions,
the right song can 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
Choosing Music is very creative; your ideas are important.
I look forward to speaking with you.
Sincerely, Eric Zimmermann
Elegant Music 323-270-3650
