The background music in hotels is an essential element in creating a welcoming atmosphere and enhancing the guest experience. Beyond being just ambient noise, the right music at different times of the day influences guests’ moods and reinforces the hotel’s identity.
In this article, we will explore how to implement a background music system in hotels, what factors to consider, and how to optimize its use to provide a unique and immersive experience.
How to adapt background music to different times of the day
For background music in hotels to be truly effective, it must be adjusted according to different times of the day. Below are some key recommendations:
1. Mornings: Soft and motivating music for a pleasant wake-up
The early hours of the day set the tone for the rest of the day. Guests waking up early seek a peaceful and pleasant experience, especially during breakfast or while moving through common areas. During this time slot, the background music in hotels should be relaxing yet stimulating, promoting a gradual wake-up without being intrusive.
The most suitable genres for this period include classical music, soft jazz, bossa nova, relaxing sounds, and instrumental ambiance. These styles create a harmonious atmosphere that helps guests start their day calmly. The volume should be kept low or moderate, ensuring subtle integration with the surroundings without interrupting conversations or causing unnecessary distractions.
Recommended areas for this type of music include the reception, breakfast area, hallways, and common spaces. In dining areas or cafés, light music enhances a more enjoyable experience, allowing guests to savor their breakfast at ease. In the lobby, a selection of instrumental pieces adds an elegant and welcoming touch, creating a suitable environment for those starting their activities or waiting for transportation.
If the hotel has a gym, the music in this area can have a more active and motivating rhythm, but it should not be excessively intense. Ideally, it should have a moderate tempo to help wake up the body without creating an overly energetic atmosphere early in the morning.
2. Midday: Light and dynamic music to boost activity
As the morning progresses and midday approaches, the hotel environment becomes more dynamic. Guests move through the facilities, staff are busy with their duties, and various interactions occur in common areas. At this time of day, background music in hotels should bring energy without being intrusive. A light and cheerful rhythm helps maintain vibrancy without creating a sense of rush or stress.
Recommended genres for this period include light pop, deep house, lounge, relaxed electronic music, and modern folk. These styles add freshness without being too intense, helping to maintain an active atmosphere without overstimulation.
The volume should be adjusted depending on the area where the background music is played. In restaurants and cafés, the music should be at a moderate level to enhance the dining experience without interfering with conversations. On terraces and by the pool, the volume can be slightly higher, creating a livelier and more relaxed atmosphere that encourages leisure and socialization.
For hotels with coworking spaces or meeting rooms, ambient instrumental music or low-fidelity sounds are ideal. This type of music enhances focus and productivity without distracting those working in these spaces.
3. Afternoon: Relaxing and elegant music for rest and socialization
The afternoon is a time when guests look to unwind after their daily activities. Some enjoy coffee at the hotel bar, others relax in the spa or their rooms, and some prepare for dinner or evening events. During this period, the background music in hotels should promote relaxation and tranquility, adding a sense of exclusivity and sophistication.
The most suitable music genres for this period include soul, soft R&B, smooth jazz, acoustic indie, and relaxing instrumental music. These selections help create a calming and exclusive atmosphere, making guests feel at ease.
The volume should be adjusted depending on the space where the music is played. In spas and relaxation areas, it should be kept at a low level to preserve the peaceful ambiance. In bars and terraces, it can be slightly higher to encourage socialization without becoming intrusive.
The ideal areas for this musical selection include lobbies, bars, spas, relaxation areas, and waiting zones. In spas, relaxing ambient music or nature sounds enhance the wellness experience. In bars and terraces, jazz and soul add a touch of sophistication without becoming monotonous. If the hotel offers tea service or afternoon snacks, a playlist with bossa nova or relaxing instrumentals can help create a cozy environment that invites conversation and relaxation.
4. Night: Exclusive and sophisticated atmosphere for a premium experience
As night falls, background music in hotels becomes a key factor in defining the venue’s ambiance. During dinner, guests expect an intimate and elegant atmosphere, while in bars and terraces, a more vibrant and social experience can be encouraged.
The recommended musical genres for the night include instrumental jazz, elegant deep house, ballads, relaxing lounge, and ethnic ambient music. These styles help create a sense of exclusivity and sophistication, perfect for accompanying dinners and evening events.
The volume should be moderate or low, allowing for conversation without interruptions. In restaurants, music should serve as a backdrop, without overpowering the dining experience. In bars and terraces, the volume can be slightly higher to create a livelier atmosphere without becoming intrusive.
The areas where background music is most important at night include restaurants, terraces, bars, relaxation areas, hallways, and elevators. If the hotel hosts nighttime events such as DJ sessions, live music, or themed parties, the music can be adapted to a more vibrant atmosphere while ensuring that the sound does not interfere with guests seeking a quiet rest.
In luxury hotels, a high-quality instrumental music selection in hallways and elevators helps reinforce the perception of exclusivity and refined taste.
Conclusion
The background music in hotels is a key tool for enhancing the guest experience and reinforcing the hotel’s identity. Adjusting the music according to the time of day creates more welcoming environments, increases guest satisfaction, and optimizes the ambiance in every space. Investing in a structured music strategy will make a significant difference in the hotel’s perception and contribute to guest loyalty.
