This week I facilitated a half-day workshop for a pharmaceutical company. It was the first time I’d worked with them so the people and the context were all quite new. All seemed to be going well and I called a break at about 10.30. Someone who described herself as the ‘tall German woman’ then said to me - ‘so Tony, where’s the music?
Of course, I’d forgotten to set this up. In the rush of getting to the session, checking my laptop was working, and artfully arranging all my post-its and pens I’d failed to think about playing music during the session. She seemed mildly disappointed. Which got me thinking about the role of music in workshops and how I’d used it in the past.
What Role Could mUSIC Take in workshops?
a) As people enter the workshop space
As people start drifting into the workshop space it can feel a bit awkward. A bit of background music can create a more informal, relaxed vibe. It can also set the mood for the session. If you’re having a creative session and you want it to feel lively and upbeat, having the right kind of music gets people fired up.
b) To signal this is ‘break-time’
To encourage people to stop working and have a coffee, play some music. It’s a clear signal to stop talking and take a break. This is particularly useful in a big workshop space. Also when the music stops, people know that it’s time to start work again. ‘Sorry everyone, break’s over’.
c) To manage energy
If people’s energy is flagging, playing feel-good music lifts the spirit.
It can provide talking points - ‘hey I love this song too’. A spontaneous singalong can break out. It can also build rapport with the participants. It shows you care about their mood and are interested in creating a positive vibe. During workshops, Spotify is your friend. I have all kinds of playlists I can draw upon. If in doubt, always go for the 80s. The oldies feel nostalgia and the youngsters know and love them from modern films and tv shows. (For example, Kate Bush via Stranger Things)
d) To end on a high
At the end of every workshop I ran with a client from Brazil, he insisted on playing ‘We Will Rock You’. It was his favourite song and everyone joined in with the clapping and singing. It always raised a smile. It became a bit of a tradition.
Playing a popular, upbeat song just after the workshop has ended sends people home in good spirits. The cheesier the better.
The Risks
a) it can be distracting
One client I knew used to ask me to put on music during break-out sessions, whilst people were working on a work exercise. She hated quiet time in workshops, so she wanted to keep it lively. I always found it got in the way of quiet contemplation. Also, beware of playing the music too loud. Maybe it’s an age thing, but I hate loud music in public places. It inhibits conversation.
b) it may be inappropriate
Musical taste is very personal. What you think is cool or uplifting may not be the same for everyone. Go for sounds that will have a broad appeal to the audience. Equally, be sensitive to the nature of the workshop. If it’s very senior, high stakes or you’re dealing with a sensitive issue, maybe hold back on the music. Or at least wait until you feel the mood is right. Otherwise, it may come across as trivial or unprofessional.
In Summary
Often in workshops, it’s the small things that make a difference. They make a workshop enjoyable or memorable. Quirky snacks, a few fun prizes, and of course the music. These are the things that are sometimes neglected - at least by me. The ‘tall German woman’ was right to point this out.
Once you’ve buttoned down the fundamentals of a session, don’t forget things like music. It’s easy to get right. Most workshop spaces have speakers and we all can access music via our phones or laptops. There are risks, but most of the time, music can add real value. It’s yet another tool we draw upon to make sure we’re brilliant facilitators.