How to DJ a Marine Navy ROTC Ball

Preparedness is key to entertaining at a military ball.

An effective and outgoing disc jockey need not be intimated when contracted to entertain for a group of military personnel. Military balls are similar to a high school prom with the formality of a banquet and the dancing tastes of students. Entertaining at the ROTC (reserve officers' training corps) ball can be challenging, but combining any previous experience with corporate functions and high school events aids in your preparedness before the event and decision-making during it. Doing your research is key; ask questions and make it happen while being professional and entertaining.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Word-processing software
• Printer paper
• Printer
• Black ink cartridge
• Pencil

Instructions

Event Preparation

1. Devise an event planning sheet which instructs the client to name the types of music and specific songs requested and any necessary equipment that will be needed during the ball. Open a new word-processing document on your computer and begin to type the event details with blanks for the client to designate venue specifics, such the facility name, address, time of event, what time the room is available for set-up and directions to the loading and unloading area. Ask for the name of a contact person at the event location and their cell phone number in case of an emergency.

2. Press the "Enter" key two times to begin a new section of event details. Formal events often begin with a cocktail or "mingling" hour. List genres of music for the client to check mark appropriate music to play during the first hour and through dinner, if applicable. Ask the client to list specific artists and songs to be played during the event's "downtime" and to indicate if a cordless microphone for a welcome and blessing will be needed.

3. Instruct the client to list the type and time of any presentations, speakers or ceremonies (what music, if any, is required) and if microphone usage is necessary. The drill team may do a performance and may require the DJ to help crown a prince and princess or king and queen of the ball.

4. Press "Enter" two more times to start another section for listing specific songs and artists that should be played during the dancing portion of the evening. Instruct the client to also list the songs they are restricting.

5. Leave space for any additional comments or instructions from the client at the end of the event planning sheet.

6. Preview the document for format, grammar and punctuation, and print it on white paper to send along with the contractual agreement or in a separate mailing. Include a postage-paid envelope so the client may complete and return the event planning sheet in a timely manner.

7. Prepare any specialized music designated by the client by purchasing albums or downloading through a reputable music site. Listen to each special song in its entirety to ensure it doesn't skip, that the entire song has been successfully downloaded and the sound is appropriate. Make a photocopy of the event planning sheet and keep one with your equipment and one copy with the contract.

During the Event

1. Meet with the banquet facility manager upon arrival and briefly review the event planning sheet together to ensure that both vendors have the same information and nothing has changed. Set up your equipment in an area designated by the venue manager using caution with regard to propped doors and elevators.

2. Play each special song on the equipment to ensure it plays correctly, once more, and test the cordless microphone throughout all corners of the banquet room. Ensure the batteries are fresh. Prepare a stack of music to begin the event and change into a tuxedo. The DJ should be dressed more professionally than the guests and should not transport and set up equipment in the clothing that will be worn during the event (to keep them fresh and clean).

3. Check in with the client upon arrival to welcome him or her. When the first guest arrives, begin playing the cocktail hour or dinner music selections provided by the client. Follow the event planning sheet to the minute. Remain flexible if the client would like to push the events back or speed things up.

4. Proceed with the ceremonies according to the client's expectations. Play the requested dancing music from the client and the guests using judgment related to appropriateness. Interact with the guests during the dancing portion of the evening by playing line and "fun" songs such as the "Cha Cha Slide," "The Electric Slide," "The Locomotion," the "YMCA" and "The Chicken Dance," which engages both the students and the advanced military personnel. Alternate recent song selections with crowd favorites. Approach the client toward the end of the night for informal feedback and to thank him for contracting your services.

References

• The Pine Needle; JROTC Military Ball a Success; Kelsey Harty; January, 2011
• KUB Information Technology Technicians: First Year Orientation