Songs to Request at a Piano Bar: A Guide to Making the Night Unforgettable
Piano bars offer a unique blend of intimacy and musicality. Choosing the right song can set the mood, spark conversation, and even make you the life of the party. But with a seemingly endless catalog of songs, selecting the perfect request can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the options and choose songs that will resonate with the pianist and the atmosphere.
What Kind of Atmosphere Are You Going For?
Before diving into specific song suggestions, consider the overall vibe you're aiming for. Are you looking for a romantic evening, a lively party, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane? The mood you want to create will significantly influence your song selection.
What are some classic piano bar songs?
This is a common question, and the answer depends heavily on the pianist's repertoire and your own musical taste. However, some reliable crowd-pleasers that are often well-suited to the piano bar setting include:
- Evergreen standards: Think Frank Sinatra ("My Way," "New York, New York"), Nat King Cole ("Unforgettable," "L-O-V-E"), and Ella Fitzgerald ("A-Tisket, A-Tasket"). These classics are instantly recognizable and generally well-received.
- Broadway showtunes: "Memory" (Cats), "Somewhere" (West Side Story), and "Over the Rainbow" (The Wizard of Oz) are beautiful and emotionally resonant choices.
- Pop classics: Songs like "Piano Man" (Billy Joel), "Bohemian Rhapsody" (Queen - though perhaps a challenge for a solo pianist!), and "Hallelujah" (Leonard Cohen) can get the whole room singing along. Choose pop songs that lend themselves well to piano arrangements.
What are some lesser-known but beautiful songs to request?
Stepping outside the well-trodden path can be rewarding. Consider these options:
- Jazz standards: Explore the works of artists like Cole Porter, George Gershwin, and Duke Ellington. Their sophisticated melodies are perfect for a sophisticated evening.
- Movie soundtracks: Many films have memorable piano-driven scores. Look to soundtracks from films like "Casablanca," "Amelie," or "The Notebook."
- Indie/Alternative songs with strong piano lines: Some indie and alternative artists have songs with stunning piano work that can translate beautifully to a piano bar setting. Look for songs that focus on melody and emotion.
Are there songs that are generally not good choices for a piano bar?
While there's no strict "no-go" list, consider avoiding songs that:
- Are overly complex or difficult to arrange for a solo piano: Extremely intricate instrumental parts or vocal harmonies might be challenging for the pianist.
- Revolve heavily around a specific instrument other than piano: A song heavily reliant on a guitar riff or a driving drum beat might not translate well.
- Are extremely obscure or unfamiliar to the pianist and likely the audience: While branching out is good, ensure the song is at least somewhat recognizable.
What if the pianist doesn't know the song I want to request?
Be prepared for this possibility. Politely ask the pianist if they know the song, and if not, offer alternatives. A pianist who's comfortable improvising might be able to play something in a similar style.
How do I politely request a song at a piano bar?
Simply approach the pianist during a break or between sets and politely ask if they know the song. A simple "Excuse me, would you consider playing [Song Title] by [Artist]?" is usually sufficient.
By thoughtfully considering the atmosphere, genre, and the pianist's likely repertoire, you can elevate your piano bar experience and make the night memorable for yourself and others. Happy listening!
