Category Archives: School Dances

Working with Student Request Lists

by Matt Ryan As I reflect back on what is wrapping up to be another successful Prom season, I am reminded of what a challenge it can be to delicately balance honoring student submitted request lists at school dances. I think it is important for DJs to be willing to consider student requests at events….

“DJs Without Borders”

by Betsy Fischer, M.Ed. You are all familiar with the organization “Doctors without Borders.” It is an international medical humanitarian organization committed to bringing quality medical care to people in crisis in nearly 60 countries. The group provides medical services to “people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe, primarily due to armed…

The “Tape Train” Game

  by Adam Hirschhorn From Mitzvahs to Communions, every child has to be entertained with music and some great games to keep them occupied. At one of the NJDJN meetings I was proud to present one of my favorite games to all of the members in attendance. It’s called “Pinocchio” or “Tape Train,” and it…

Use School Dances to Book Other Teen Events

By Matt Ryan Each time you perform a school dance, your “product” is in front of hundreds of teens. These teenagers are holding birthday parties, mitzvahs, and graduation parties. What are you doing to put your brand in front of teens at your school events to get them to remember YOU when it comes time…

Giveaways for School Events

by Matt Ryan If you provide music for school dances, perhaps you already incorporate contests or raffles into your performances. Giveaways, however, offer a perfect opportunity to make you more than just a “DJ” and to really engage your crowd. So what types of prizes can you give away? You can always spend (waste) money…

Raising the BAR Mitzvah with Dance Motivators!

by Adam Hirschhorn Most Bar/Bat Mitzvah DJ companies offer dance motivators as part of a package or as an a la carte add on. While these “extras” may not be necessary to show everyone a good time, they certainly do make a worthwhile investment into the overall party experience because of how they help the…

Make Middle School Events FUN!

by Matt Ryan We all remember our own awkward middle school years – you’re growing faster than you can keep up with and you’re just trying to fit in, not really sure who your friends are and what you’re good at. Middle school affords you a lot of sudden freedom and something kind of scary…

Making Weddings Fun for Children

by Alan Dodson As I began to write this article, I did a little bit of research on what the “experts” have to say about entertaining kids at weddings and receptions. What I found and essentially did not find both somewhat surprised me. Virtually every article I read advised to have coloring books, paints, inflatable…

Creative Mitzvah Grand Entrances

by Adam Hirschhorn The Grand Entrance is the formal and festive introduction of the Bar Mitzvah boy or Bat Mitzvah girl, their parents, and their siblings. Ranging from simple to extravagant, it offers an initial opportunity for everyone in attendance to be included in the party. The Grand Entrance provides a chance for the guests…

Book School Dances with the RIGHT People

By Matt Ryan You’ve spent hours crafting the perfect cover letter. You’re certain your rates are just right for your market. You’ve spent hundreds of dollars printing flashy brochures. Plus you’re good at what you do! So why aren’t you getting more bookings? If you have been endlessly “spinning your wheels” trying to break into…