Re: advice on setting the right atmosphere for a private party



Dennis,
 
I've done several of these with a 5 piece band (gtr, bass, drums, vocalist, harp/sax player).  
 
The key seems to be to bring the people to you, not for you to take your show to them.
Quiet intensity is the key.  Your show should be kisck ass within a radius of 30 feet(i.e., same room).  Outside of that, the level should allow party goers to have a conversation.
 
Later in the evening, when the folks are lubricated, the volume will creep up.  Be Careful!  Still play at only 60-75% of your bar volume.  People will be impressed.
 
Quiet intensity is the key.  Stick to your guns at do your show, just do it at a low volume.
 
Also, keep in mind the noise ordinances of the community.  Often the band will receive the noise fine($50 - $100), not the home owner.  Most of thes laws do not go into effect until after 11 pm.
 
Don't be afraid to charge more for the private shows.  Since you are not expecting repeat business, most private shows/weddings/etc. start negotiations at double an established venue.
 
Good Luck!
 
Will

"Dennis B. Alters MD" <dr.alters-wizardsway@xxxxxxx> wrote:

Hi,

We were glad to get a surprise adult birthday party for someone turning 50. Kind of a swanky place in Newport Beach. We are a little nervous figuring out if we should be background music for conversation, kick ass show band or try to get a bunch of possibly up tight professional people dancing with a snowball like a 5th grade cottillion get together.

Any ideas on how to make this successful is appreciated. The hostess is unsure of what to expect in terms of the crowd attitude and participation. We would like to blend in when appropriate but also demonstrate what our group can do in terms of providing a really fun dance atmosphere. However this group may feel awkward in anything more expressive than foot tapping. There will be a few party animals but mostly conservative adults.

The hostess has also given us permission to leave our cards and flyers etc. for marketing. We are hoping to do well with this crowd for the future.

Advice appreciated.

Doc



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Dennis "Doc" Alters 

Harp and Vocals 
The Alternators 
www.thealternatorsband.com




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