The author hard at work mixing her next masterpiece.

Music: it’s the most essential element for a successful party, and
although creating a good mix can be challenging, that’s half the fun!
There are many factors to consider, and if you don’t know where to start,
here are a few tips as a guide. Most importantly, do what makes you happy
and the rest will follow.

1. Collect music.

Photograph by Sam Murphy

You can go at it old school, get high tech, or mix it up. If you’re like me, you have lots of great CDs and maybe even a cassette tape or two. Lurking in the mix are the gems that are going to set the tone for your party. Look through all your sources to find the most appropriate songs. Get on i Tunes and listen to songs and bands you haven’t heard of before, or download songs you love but don’t have in your arsenal. It’s all about the hunt.

2. Know your audience.

This will help you create a range of music suited

for all types of people. I’ve made some of my favorite mixes for those I know very well and those I wanted to get to know, and I always consider this factor when creating a mix. You can’t pull out Olivia Newton-John’s “Xanadu” unless you really know your audience.

 

3. Create a taster test. Collect a list of songs that you like to hear and those you might consider playing at a party. Quickly skip through each song (this is the taster test part) and listen to the mix you’ve created. Does it flow? Is there enough variety for everyone? What’s the timing like?