Holiday Entertainment Choices: Hiring a Band or DJ

This is the time of year for the office party, corporate dinner, dance, or Christmas party. From mid-December through mid-January, many of us will attend a minimum of one holiday get-together or party, more likely several. Invariably other celebrations like weddings and birthdays might get put in this time of year.

In planning your holiday celebrations, you usually budget for entertainment of some kind. This means hiring either a live band or DJ. Either choice can work well for your event. Many people choose a DJ for sheer cost, but don't forget that there are a number of good local/regional dance bands in your area, who are likely very experienced in these types of events. Here are some considerations for each.

Hiring a DJ

Cost

Equipment/staging needs

Power requirements (electrical, lighting, etc)

Repertoire

Do they take requests? How do they handle them?

Other provisions

Hiring a live band

Overall cost

Setup/Teardown time

How long do you want them to play

Repertoire (odds are you don't want a metal band to play a dance J )

Do they take requests?

Pros and Cons: DJ

-PRO: Variety of music

-PRO: usually lower cost

-CON: less lively of live experience, can come off as "too radio"

Pros and Cons: Live Band

-PRO: more fun, and more energy à the live music experience

-PRO: more specialized music (depends on event and band)

-PRO: full professional show

-CON: less variety

-CON: more setup time

When choosing a mode of entertainment for your next holiday event, be sure to do your homework. There are websites out there. Inquire directly to several local DJs and bands, and ask them to peruse their contract rider. Ask the following questions:

-How much do you charge?

-What kind of music do you specialize in?

-Do you do/play dances and holiday events regularly

-Do you take requests?

-Do you take set breaks?

-Do you need any special provisions?

-Do you have references?

-Can I see your songlist?

-Can I see a sample contract?

Holiday events are meant to be fun for all invited. Music can and should play a significant part of that. A little bit of legwork and homework beforehand, can ensure a good time for all, and less headaches too. Before your event, do some research. Find some bands in your area, and ask if they do holiday events. Tell them about your upcoming event. Then see if they're playing anywhere close, and go see them. Introduce yourself (bring along flyers and/or business cards, and ask them if they have any of their own).

Find a good band or a good DJ, and plan out your event and expectations. Good music is the icing on the cake for a great holiday party, dance or event.