Thinking of adding something to the experience? A little live music during cocktail hour could be just the ticket.
Few parts of any social event are more fun and engaging than cocktail hour. It’s often the one time you can relax, engage with other guests, have a drink and just be yourself. It’s basically recess for adults! Many clients are looking to add just a little extra to their event, and a little live lounge music is just that.
Close for your eyes for just a second and picture it. You’ve got long stemware with Bubbly Prosecco, deep Red’s and calm whites on silver trays, a beautiful view, it’s almost perfect. It just needs…a soundtrack! Something elegant, something classy, not too loud… just enough to compliment the ‘oh my gosh, how have you been’s?’ and the clinking of glasses.
Why Live Music?
Swanky cocktail hour music calls back to the ultra-sheik heyday of early Hollywood. Movie stars would mingle over martini’s as a pianist or a small combo would serenade the guests. And who doesn’t want to feel like a movie star, especially since we’re all dolled up!
Thinking of adding a little music to your pre-dinner drinks? Here are a few tips to help you plan.
Location, Location
The best spot for your live band is a little bit away from the bar. Servers will be busy taking orders and there’s usually a lot people in that area anyway. The ideal spot for a small combo would be in a nook or corner that doesn’t intersect with any doorways or walkways….Can’t be too careful with high heel shoes! Best bet, something close to a power outlet and off to the side. Since the smooth sounds will travel, and because safety comes first, musicians can locate off to one side.
Cocktail Music Style
Anything from solo piano to a full 5 or 6 piece band is an option for cocktail hour. It all depends on the mood you’re trying to create. Instrumental is a common choice for cocktail hour, and our most booked combo is Piano, Upright Bass and lite drums. This will give you the classic ‘cocktail jazz’ sound. If you want to add a bit more engagement and you’re wondering what guests love the most, add vocals. As much as we try to deny it and because we all have a song in our heart and love to sing along. For a little excitement, perhaps saxophone. It’s all about creating an environment. A place, and a style that creates an unforgettable moment. Not sure what’s best? No problem. Parkside has hosted dozens of cocktail events with live music and we’re happy to point you in the right direction.
Stay on schedule during cocktail hour
An often overlooked problem with cocktail hour, is guests enjoy it too much! Dinner service needs to begin for the catering department to keep their timelines running properly. One of the absolute best ways to move guests from A to B is create clear, non-verbal cues. After about an hour or so, as the bar closes and the antipasto is moved to another location it’s now time to stop the music. It’s like musical chairs (except there’s usually enough chairs for everyone) Your guests now know that it’s time to move on to their seats for dinner. And hey, If that’s too subtle, the musicians are often equipped with a speaker and can make the announcement for you.
Cocktail hour is one of the best parts of any group event, a wonderful chance to share a drink, a tune, and enjoy the good life.