Yes, while the stores are setting up for Halloween and Thanksgiving, the musicians are dusting off their holiday music. Holiday events start to book very early because of demand and planners that like all the details taken care of ahead of time. Surprisingly, many holiday parties are now being held prior to Thanksgiving or in January. This really extends the time we can play those holiday favorites. I love it! No reason for some of those songs to be limited to 30 days a year.
An example is a recent booking of a holiday lunch to be held in early November. The coordinator was quite surprised to hear that I would support her Christmas theme so early. If the facility and caterer will do so, then why wouldn't I?
Last year I was quite busy with daytime and evening events. Harp music really adds an extra special touch to your open house or dinner event. It expresses gratitude to employees or long standing customers. Being a great backdrop for table conversation, the playlist does not need to be limited to just holiday music but should include some old favorites, classical, and more contemporary music....depending on your event and guest list.
Some of my long standing clients have already been calling about booking but are quick to say they haven't solved their budget issues yet. I love how many of them are coming up with creative ways to save money but still show their guests the same great time they have in the past.
For one event, I am only playing during the cocktail hour instead of continuing through dinner. Usually this company makes use of just one room for cocktails and dinner, but they actually save money but using two rooms and just me for the cocktail hour. Once their guests enter the room for dinner, the facility can provide music overhead and the guests won't notice I have left.
Another event is going to Sunday night....this also got them a discount on my services!
Yes, I discount Sundays (and Fridays!). I would say that almost 1/2 of my 2007 business was on a Friday or Sunday. I think 2008 will shape up to be the same.
So Happy Halloween....Happy Thanksgiving, and for all my fellow musicians, Strike the Harp and Join the Chorus! Fa la la la la, la la la la!
Elizabeth
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