Time for a recap: 1. Choose the jazz band from the perspective of what is required from them. Do you want background music or do you want to dance?
2. How many guests do you have? Is the band the right size? Is it dressed correctly?
3. Is the band outside? Do you have access to power? Can they play acoustically if need be?
4. What tunes can they play? Ask them for a repertoire list, do you recognize the . titles?
5. Are they professionals? This may seem obvious but there are many musicians out there who have retired from full time work or are in between jobs and are making their hobby a source of income. How long have they worked as professionals? Who have they played with in the past? What experience do they have in performing for the type of event you are having?
6. Ask for a sample cd. What is their publicity like? You need to be confident that you are getting a reliable professional outfit that will turn up in plenty of time, look the part, be totally co-operative to your needs and play suitable music. The right jazz band can make your party, the wrong one can spoil it to some lesser or greater degree.
7. Are they flexible? You do not want to find out half way through a dance that the band you have booked can only play one style of jazz. Ask them when you are considering booking them. Can they play some Classic Soul? Can they do some Latin tunes? Don't be fobbed off with "We do a bit of everything" Ask them for a repertoire list.
8. Discuss a rider with the band. Are you supplying refreshments for the jazz band? Although not expected refreshments are very much appreciated especially if the band is on site for a while with no access to food and drink. If it is not convenient don't worry. If the jazz band knows in advance they can make their own arrangements.
9. Have you articulated to the band what type of music you want to hear? Don't worry if you are not knowledgeable about jazz. Tell the jazz bandleader or agent the tunes you like and the artists you like. This will give the leader/agent an excellent idea of which bands to recommend. Look through your cd collection for ideas; ask friends and family for suggestions. When the jazz band turns up it will be properly briefed and able to give the performance you wanted.
About the author
Jeff Williams is a London based trombonist and vocalist who has worked all over the world in most areas of the Business. He also runs a successful, specialist, live music agency using the best of London musicians, servicing both private and corporate clients playing all over the country. He would be happy to advise you with your own event or party and offers bespoke solutions for the perfect occasion.
Contact him on +44(0)20 8761 8932 or +44(0)7747 801471 Email him on bonejeff@aol.com
Visit the website http://www.jazznotjazz.co.uk
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