How to Choose the Right Piano Music for Your Event
Jazz, classical, or contemporary? How to choose the right piano music for your event.
Live piano music has a way of transforming an event—it sets the tone, creates ambiance, and makes even the simplest gathering feel like something special. But what kind of piano music is right for your occasion? Should you go with the timeless elegance of classical, the effortless cool of jazz, or the emotional pull of contemporary favorites?
Let’s break it down, so you can pick the perfect soundtrack for your big day, elegant soirée, or swanky cocktail hour.
Classical piano: timeless, sophisticated, and just a little fancy
If you want your event to exude grace, elegance, and a touch of old-world charm, classical piano is the way to go. The melodies of Chopin, Debussy, Beethoven, and Mozart have been filling grand ballrooms and fancy dinner parties for centuries. This style creates an atmosphere that feels refined but never overwhelming—think soft, flowing notes that make everyone feel like they’re in a period drama, but without the corsets.
Best for:
✔️ Wedding ceremonies
✔️ Upscale receptions & black-tie events
✔️ Fine dining experiences & formal galas
✔️ Art shows, wine tastings, and anywhere people appreciate the finer things in life
Jazz piano: laid-back, stylish, and effortlessly cool
If classical piano is a formal evening gown, jazz piano is a well-tailored suit with the tie slightly loosened—sophisticated, but relaxed. Jazz creates an ambiance that’s both elegant and inviting, striking the perfect balance between polished and playful. It’s a natural fit for cocktail hours, intimate receptions, and upscale dinners—any event where guests should feel at ease but still a little impressed.
Perfect for:
✔️ Wedding cocktail hours
✔️ Private dinner parties & intimate gatherings
✔️ Vintage-style weddings or events with a touch of nostalgia
✔️ Corporate functions that want to be classy but not too stuffy
Contemporary piano: personal, emotional, and a little cinematic
Maybe your event calls for something a little more modern—music that feels personal and meaningful. Contemporary piano covers everything from pop ballads to movie soundtracks, making it a great option if you want to include songs that mean something to you and your guests. Whether it’s a romantic wedding dance, a heartfelt anniversary celebration, or a modern event that just doesn’t need centuries-old compositions, contemporary piano makes the moment feel real, raw, and a little cinematic.
Best for:
✔️ First dances, wedding receptions & milestone celebrations
✔️ Private anniversaries & sentimental moments
✔️ Personalized memorial services & tributes
✔️ Casual but stylish events where guests can sing along
How to choose the right style for your event
If you’re torn between genres, consider:
🔹 The atmosphere you want – elegant and refined, relaxed and sophisticated, or personal and emotional?
🔹 Your guests – will they appreciate timeless pieces, smooth jazz, or modern hits they recognize?
🔹 Your setting – a grand ballroom might call for classical, while a candlelit dinner party leans toward jazz.
And if you can’t decide? The best option is often a mix—a touch of classical for the ceremony, jazz for the cocktail hour, and contemporary songs for those extra-special moments.
Make it personal: custom song requests
Music has the power to bring back memories, evoke emotions, and create unforgettable moments. That’s why Pike County Piano Company offers the option to learn and perform select songs that hold special meaning for you. Whether it’s the song you first danced to, a jazz standard your family loves, or a sentimental favorite, Jesse Braun will work with you to craft a setlist that feels personal and unique to your event.
Why request a custom song?
🔹 Make your wedding or first dance even more meaningful
🔹 Surprise a loved one with their favorite song performed live
🔹 Set the perfect tone for a milestone celebration or tribute
If you have a special request, let’s make it happen. Jesse is happy to work with you to ensure your event’s music is not just beautiful, but deeply personal.
Let’s create the perfect sound for your event
At Pike County Piano Company, Jesse Braun tailors every performance to fit the mood and style of your event. Whether you want refined classical pieces, smooth jazz, or contemporary favorites, every note will be played with care, artistry, and just the right amount of flair.
Get in touch today to book live piano music that sets the perfect tone.