How to Select Your Music

Planning music for your party can be easy and fun. Sure, you’ll need to make many decisions, but because you have so many options, taking a systematic approach will help you make everything fit together perfectly.

The following suggestions come from experience. Playing nearly every day since January 1975, we’ve helped make thousands of special events memorable. We’ve seen that whether a party needs to be one-of-a-kind or just-like-the-last-one, the planner helps make it successful by selecting the appropriate music.

So, how do you select a band for the perfect party? It’s simple — just ask yourself the right questions. They’ll help you quickly find exactly what you want.

No matter what styles of music you’re considering, ask yourself first about the atmosphere you want to create. Picture the overall mood you want for your guests. Formal, elegant and sophisticated? Casual and mellow? Upbeat and rousing? Want a unifying theme for your event?

Keep this image in mind as you continue selecting your music. And don’t plan just visually. What do you want your party to sound like?

Now, whether your heart’s set on one favorite musical style, or if you’re open to a few different styles — for example, jazz, classical, top 40s, disco, or country — examine what’s available:

Ask for recommendations:
– Friends and Colleagues
– Wedding Professionals (musicians, wedding coordinators, facilities, photographers, caterers, florists, decorators)
– Wedding Magazines and Entertainment Agencies
– Local Entertainment Listings (internet, newspapers, radio)

When you contact possible bands, here are a few points to check:
– Speak with the musician who’ll actually lead your band.
– Develop a comfortable rapport — be sure the “chemistry” is right.
– Check their experience. Get references.
– Request a free demo CD, tune list, and related information.
– Arrange to hear a live performance whenever possible.
– Other practical issues: Can they act as MC? Can they provide a PA system? Can they provide music during their breaks? Any additional fees for travel or overtime?

Finally, thank goodness you can choose among dozens of musical styles. The Magnolia Jazz Band specializes in entertaining people with popular swing standards, traditional jazz classics, and Latin favorites. Ranging from a trio to a sextet, we’ve got what it takes to jazz up hundreds of parties every year.

While many people share our musical preferences, they’re certainly not for everyone. Whatever musical styles you prefer, searching systematically will help you select the right music to make your party perfect. Now, please preview the fun you’ll enjoy with us. Questions? Email us right now. Thank you for considering us, and best wishes for your party!