Tuesday, November 30, 2010

For Your Wedding Or Party, Have You Considered Hiring A Live Band?

By Ben Shergar


As you plan your event, you've probably wondered what to do about music. Should you hire a live band? Would a D. J. Be a better choice? Or will you hook up your iPod to a sound system and playback your own custom party playlist? Whether you are planning a wedding, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, a corporate event, a reunion, or some other event, your choice of music will set the tone. Choosing a band for your event can spell the difference between a good party and an amazing party.

One advantage of a live band is the band's ability to interact with the audience. A good event band can gauge the mood of the audience, making adjustments in their presentation and repertoire to keep those in attendance smiling and dancing to songs they are familiar with. The energy of a live band simply cannot be equaled by a D. J., who can only play the songs exactly as they were recorded, and no changes in presentation are possible.

While a D. J. May have a playlist of thousands of songs, over the course of a 4 hour event only about 60 to 70 songs will be played. Most bands have a repertoire considerably greater than this. Additionally, bands often specialize in performing at particular types of parties, and know a large number of popular and appropriate songs for that type of event.

While an iPod might be considered an ideal solution for party music, given both the infinite variety of and absolute control over music it provides, there are some strong arguments against this idea. For one thing, the volume varies a lot between songs on an iPod. For another, should you wish to change the order of playback, or accommodate requests, someone will need to handle this task. Without someone knowledgeable dedicated to this task for the duration of the party, it is doubtful this will go smoothly.

Another benefit to employing a live band is that the band's leader will often have experience acting as a host or emcee, adding a professional touch to the festivities. The band will also typically allow their sound equipment to be utilized for speeches and toasts. When the band breaks, they will provide prerecorded music.

The best way to choose a band is to hear them play live. Frequently you will have a chance to see a perspective band live, since many working bands have frequent live dates scheduled, in nightclubs, or at community events. Should this not be possible, the band will typically have video or audio recordings available for you to review.

To get a better idea of what the band will be like live, be sure to ask for recordings of live concert performances as opposed to studio recordings.

Don't forget to work out your playlist with the band well in advance of the actual date. Remember, musicians love to play live, and most of them are doing it for more than just money. Hiring a live band will help make your special event unforgettable!




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