Picture yourself seated in a waiting room or entering a hotel lobby. A stranger turns a magazine, the clock runs, and someplace above music floats through the air. Though most people won’t clock the music, they will sense it as though invisible wallpaper is tying everything together. Have you ever seen how the wrong tune may cause time to crawl? Alternatively the correct song helps you unwind, nearly forgetting why you are there in the first place. That is not a mistake.

Definitely, Decor will draw your attention. But melodies? It strikes directly at the mood. I once entered a workplace where someone thought it would be brilliant to have screaming party tunes at 9 a.m.; felt like strapping on roller skates just to have my morning coffee. An old mistake. Conversely, gentle instrumentals, mellow jazz, even understated indie songs can calm even the most nervous mind.

Finding appropriate lobby music is a difficult balancing act not discussed in any forum. Not only should you choose songs you enjoy. The Goldilocks area is not quiet enough to be embarrassing yet not so loud that everyone is raising their voices. Song: Lyrics Be careful; the wrong words at the wrong moment may cause embarrassment. Usually instrumental, although a recognizable song every now and then can cause a quizzical smile.

Consider the folks that pass through these areas. Are these weary travellers? Parents under stress carrying children with them? Professionals dressed in suits for lunch break? There is not a one-size-fits-all playlist. While a jazzy soundtrack could help adults relax, a peppy acoustic piece helps parents herding restless small children maintain their vitality. One has to consider somewhat forward. You understand why diversity is important if you have seen “Greensleeves” on repeat.

Adding sprinkles of local music adds a pleasing element. It might be a laid-back surf guitar by the sea, perhaps some casual blues in an old downtown structure. This gives personality without calling undue attention. Overdo it, and anxious for a change personnel and guests will start scaling the walls. Changing it during the day helps individuals avoid zoning out—that is, from getting annoyed over repetition.

Good lobby music works best in the background. Though it covers uncomfortable silences, helps people calm their tensions, and smooths away rough edges from talks, nobody is expected to notice it directly. It’s like the friend at the party who gently keeps things cheerful without demanding attention.

Making music for these venues requires experimenting, reading the atmosphere, and perhaps just asking whoever is there, “What do you think?” You have done it well if more folks linger with ease or if you see subdued toe tapping. The intention is never to present a performance; rather, it is to create a venue where people choose to remain, even if only for a minute. Sometimes all it takes to make a decent first impression outstanding.