Meetings + Events

Five ways to crank up the volume on your event

By Dave Briggs

Bellosound founder Daniel Buckman knows a thing or two about punching up events with music. At this year’s Interior Design Show in Toronto, Buckman had four DJs performing throughout the convention floor and a headline performance with a live horn section and guitarist. Then, to celebrate the show’s Pan Am Games theme, Buckman brought out Brazilian drummers and Capoeira fighters.

“Everyone was having fun on stage and it translated into everyone really having fun at the party. It was a big success,” says Buckman.

The right music has the power to engage and connect an audience, he says. “It encourages people to be social and communicate. It's an efficient way to make a really major impact.”

Here are five tips to boost your event with music:

Pair a DJ with live musicians Buckman has mixed a variety of musicians with DJs with positive results. “It’s engaging,” he says.

Amplify your theme Hawaiian music for a luau, a Creole jazz band for a New Orleans theme. Tying music to your decor is a powerful way to bring your event’s theme to life.

Not just for parties Use music to build momen­tum by bridging events, signaling the end of breaks and pumping up your keynote speakers. A combi­nation of recorded and live music keeps it interesting.

Pump up your brand The right music is essential for helping companies establish their audio identity.

Hire professionals Music can be deeply per­sonal. Your DIY playlist is unlikely to resonate with your guests. Professionals know best how to program music to help you achieve your event’s goals. If budget allows, hire a well-known band or artist. It can be a great way to leave a lasting impression.

Make it legal
Always ask about licensing when securing an event, venue and en­tertainment: Most venues and some DJs already pay licensing fees, but that’s not always the case. In Canada, licensing is controlled by SOCAN (the Society of Com­posers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada). For more informa­tion about fees for playing music at your event, check out socan.ca.