Party Music

Party music isn't just about deejays and bands. Tailor your party's theme songs to the occasion and look for an affordable option of providing that music.

Musical Needs

The first decision you need to make is whether your party needs any music. Without music, some parties will fail miserably. Music is necessary for a dance party, but it may not be required for a more intimate gathering where guests prefer to talk or play games. You don't want tunes blaring if they'll distract people from the purpose of the party. Even very soft, classical music may be too much at a party where you plan to play some of the louder party games like Taboo, Outburst or Pictionary.

Match Music to Party Theme

For certain kinds of parties, the type of music is pre-ordained, although the musical style may vary. Christmas parties need holiday music, but you can choose from modern, secular songs or more classical, religious carols. Dance parties aren't the same without dance music, and usually a mix of fast and slow music is best. Theme parties need music that reinforces the theme. For example, Mexican music for a "South of the Border" party, or fifties tunes for a retro sock hop.

For other types of parties, there is much more latitude in the choice of "suitable" party music. A quiet get-together with friends might do well with oldies or classical music playing softly in the background. A cocktail party or casual gathering will do well with more modern, popular styles played at a higher volume.

Some parties may need a variety of music. A birthday or anniversary party, for example, should feature music that is special to the guests of honor, regardless of style or genre.

Where to Get Party Music

While a professional deejay or band is always an option - and probably the best option for parties like wedding receptions and bar mitzvahs - it's quite possible and far cheaper to provide your own music.

DIY Music

Once you know what kind of party you are having, scan your collection of CDs and music files for appropriate music. CDs and computer files (or iPod selections) are best because they can be set for continuous play, which is not possible with most cassette players or turntables.

If you don't have the right music, or enough music, in your own collection, ask friends to create their own playlists or CDs to supplement your songs. Utilize other inexpensive resources like Half.com, local music consignment stores, or local thrift shops for additional tunes.

Go Local

If you really want a band but cannot afford the fees for a well-known group, consider some of your smaller local bands. Certain pubs and eateries in town may have an Amateur Night and may be able to recommend lesser "stars" in your area. Local music stores and music schools/teachers are also a good source of recommendations. Many of these garage or pick-up bands are willing to do a gig for a nominal price, especially if you agree to let the band eat and/or drink as part of the deal. You need the music, and they need the experience, so this option can be a win-win situation.

Listen First

Don't rely solely on word-of-mouth when it comes to local talent. Listening to the band and meeting members beforehand can be critical to your party's success. Set aside some time to visit the various places where the groups play so that you can judge for yourself. This can be an enjoyable weekend activity if you take along a friend or significant other. This way, you'll be able to hear their style first hand and see if this band is truly a good fit for your gathering.

Setting Up the Music

If you are hiring a professional band or deejay, those professionals will bring their own equipment. Make sure that you know ahead of time how much room they will need, so that you can plan accordingly. There's nothing worse than planning to put the band in the corner of the yard by the pool, only to find that the area is so small that the drummer and keyboarder are jammed up against the azaleas. Also make sure that you have an adequate power supply available. Bands need a lot of places to plug things in, and deejays often have more than one setup as well.

If you are doing your own music via CD player or computer, set up your music before party time so that all you have to do is push the button at the appropriate hour. Your computer can play for hours, and so can your CD player if you have a good-sized CD-changer. The newer iPod docking stations come complete with full-sized speaker sets, so even your iPod can be used as a perpetual music machine.

Monitor the Music

Whatever source you have chosen for your party tunes, make sure to keep an ear out during your party. If the music gets too loud or becomes drowned out by the conversations in the room, you will need to adjust the volume. If the band is playing line-dancing music non-stop and you have couples who want a slow dance, you may have to address that with the band's leader or the deejay, although many professional deejays are good about gaging what the audience needs and wants to make the party "sing."

Good Tunes, Good Times

If you haven't given much thought to how music can affect your party's atmosphere and overall success, now is a good time to get acquainted with a song list. Whether it's nothing but oldies, or you need loud, modern tunes to get your guests up and moving, the perfect playlist can greatly enhance your next get-together.