MAKING THE MOOD: HOW TO MATCH YOUR MUSIC TO YOUR EVENT

The soundtrack to an event can make or break the atmosphere in an instant, getting everyone in the right mood and adding that all-important feel-good factor. Music can relax, inspire and motivate, depending on the style and vibe you are trying to create.

Thanks to the versatility of today’s speaker technology, it is easier than ever before to create a playlist to play wherever your event is taking place or build a multiroom system for the whole house. Using a streaming service like Spotify or Apple music and linking it to your speaker or Hi-Fi System makes it even easier to arrange. Here are some ideas for styles of music at different types of event.

CORPORATE OCCASIONS

Business conferences, seminars and speeches tend to have several presenters or spoken material that needs to be disseminated without too much interruption. Yet there’s still a place for quiet background music in the coffee breaks, lunch slots and registration areas. Music can work well if an event involves people moving from area to area, such as an exhibition, to keep the mood upbeat and to avoid awkward silences. Stick to calmer tunes – instrumental works well – and avoid straying too far from mainstream tastes, unless the theme of your event calls for a certain musical style.

ACTIVE WORKOUTS

When you head to the gym or local park for a workout, you want to get your heart pumping and the muscles working as quickly as possible. Create a playlist full of songs and tunes with an inspiring message and a firm beat. Rock and upbeat Top 40 hits are good choices for this, as is heavy metal for its thumping drums and bass lines. Add a few mellow tunes to your playlist too, to help you cool down afterwards.

TIME TO PARTY

Once again, options for a party soundtrack are pretty much limitless and your final choice will be largely down to personal taste and any pre-arranged themes. Look at the different eras of pop music to pick out some lively favourites to start with that will get people up and onto the dance floor. Mix it up with some slower love ballads for later in the evening or throw in some novelty tunes for the chance to have a crazy dance. Thanks to internet streaming services, you could even ask guests for any requests as the party gets underway.

AWARDS, SPORTS AND COMPETITIONS

Music can be a fantastic addition to events with an element of suspense, as it can evoke a mood of anticipation and excitement. In the lead-up to a result or a winner being announced, the music can be quiet and tense, with triumphant fanfares announcing the winner and leading guests into a mood of celebration. Bear in mind your audience when planning the music for an award or sporting occasion, as this will have a big effect on the type of music (and volume) that will be appreciated the most. Don’t forget to download the national anthem of any countries taking part, if appropriate, to evoke national pride.