Website photography questions

[Ralph III]

Hello,
I am in the process of getting into event photography and am creating a photography website. I would like some advice with the following.
1) Where is a good place to get music for slideshow presentations?
2) What "general" music, with or without lyrics, would you recommend that would play well in the background? I am looking at old rock, country, some gospel and classical as my favorites. I however would like some ideas from the "pro's". Jazz/contemporary? Song and band recommendations please. My slideshows will be across the board, sports/portraiture/weddings/landscape/wildlife etc.
3) Are there free internet downloads for such or can I use my own music cd's without violating any copyright laws?
4) Do I need a release of some sort to post pics of people/places for my slideshows?
Thanks

[Pete]

Music on web-sites is pretty much frowned upon these days, it's seen as being somewhat annoying.

Many people are doing other things while looking at web sites (working/listening to their own music/looking while in a public place/etc). If a website loads up with music, then people are likely to simply close the page down and look at something else.

No one will really mind if you offer a slide show without music.

[masse]

I can confirm that music/audio is not really the way to go on 99% of websites...unless you're a musician of course. :)

[Hikin Mike]

It's fine if you want to make your own slideshow, using music, for your home entertainment center, but not for a website. I personally HATE music on a site and will LEAVE before I find the off button.

[Ralph III]

Well I appreciate the input but am surprised. In my research, which includes professional and excellent local photographers, most have background music which for me helps to bring their site to life.

Yes, they do offer the "off" switch which is understandable and as I will do. I may consider setting it to "off" by default and offer various slideshow options, slideshow or interactive, given what has been said on this topic.

Irrespective, are there any suggestions for music and with copyrights? Otherwise, what other ways to make a website seem lively?
Thanks!

[Faolan]

What country are you in? That will affect any licencing authority you may contact, also search the boards there is a thread that contains various Royalty Free sites.