The best way to convey a message to someone is the shortest and simplest way possible. Hence, the concept of presentations came to being. Notice how Microsoft named their presentation software “PowerPoint” – Power in every point!

With the coming of presentations, came the possibility of making them attractive, eye catchy and something to leave an impression from. Enter Stage right: “Images”. Images are to presentations like apple were to computers ages ago! They re-fined, defined and placed the conventional use of presentations.

“A picture is worth a thousand words”

There isn’t anything that pictures can’t express what text can. But of course the use of images and text together is unbeatable.

Now the most common question which people ask while creating presentations is that “which music should I insert in my presentation? “
Well the answer to this question according to me is that: “It always depends“

Music and Questions!

The first and foremost problem that would arise is the selection of the music!
Then you’ll hit upon the questions – “would music be necessary in this presentation?”
If yes then “what kind of music”?
Should this music be quiet or loud?
What genre of music?
Would my audience like this music? What are their choices!

Dis-Advantages of music in a presentation

• The music kills a presentation and creates a multi-dimensional problem not only for the presenter but also the people watching/ learning from the presentation.
• You cannot talk while the presentation is going on. This means that you cannot engage you audience.
• People might hate your presentation because of your music selection no matter how good the presentation is.
• You need to explain everything in it that means more text and more for your audience to read.
• Has to be a long presentation because a a short one with music in it would simply be dumb.

Advantages of music in a presentation

• Makes the presentation very interesting.
• Attracts and demands the attention of the audience.
• Can move people’s sentiments and leave a long lasting impact.
• Makes people relate better if the music is of their interest.
• Tells a lot about the presenter and his choice.
• If the presenter is boring, music can save your ass!

So in the end, advantages and disadvantages aside, it all boils down to which kind of presentation you are delivering.

If it’s a business presentation then personally, I’d suggest not going for music. But if your giving a motivational presentation, music would work like a charm!

Let me know about your views on the same, and if you have any great presentations, do share them.