Your Corporate Event Music Checklist: How to Hire a Jazz Band in Atlanta

Planning a corporate event in Atlanta comes with a long to-do list—venue, catering, guest list, branding, AV setup—the works. But one thing that can’t be overlooked if you want your event to truly shine? The music. And not just any music. Live jazz creates a polished, energetic, and professional atmosphere that recorded playlists or background DJs just can’t match.

As a bandleader and jazz trumpet player in Atlanta, I’ve performed at dozens of corporate events over the years—from end-of-year galas and client appreciation dinners to trade shows and executive retreats. If you’re considering booking a jazz band for your next event, here’s a complete checklist to help you get it right.

Define the Role of the Music
Before you book, ask yourself: What role should the music play? Are you looking for something in the background to elevate the ambiance? Or will there be moments when the music is the main attraction?

At some events, we’ve provided elegant background music during a networking cocktail hour. At others, we’ve performed an engaging set during a dinner program or led a New Orleans-style sendoff to close out the night.

The clearer you are about the music’s purpose, the better we can tailor our setup and setlist to match.

Choose the Right Band Size
Jazz bands come in many shapes and sizes. For more intimate or budget-conscious events, a duo or trio (trumpet, piano, bass) offers a classy and space-friendly solution. For larger events, a quartet or quintet with drums and possibly vocals brings fuller energy.

We’ve played everything from a solo horn set at a law firm’s holiday reception to a full five-piece band at a Fortune 500 awards dinner. Let your space, guest count, and tone guide your choice.

Think About the Timeline
Event flow is everything. Will guests arrive all at once, or trickle in? Is there a speaking program we need to be aware of? Will music play a role during transitions—like award announcements, raffles, or recognitions?

We always request a run-of-show so we can align our set with key moments. Our goal is to be part of the solution, not a disruption.

Review the Venue and Setup Needs
Some Atlanta venues are turnkey, while others have quirky acoustics or limited power access. We always ask for photos of the space or a quick site walk-through if possible. That way, we can plan the right setup and ensure minimal stress for you on event day.

Will we need to bring our own sound system? How close will we be to the audience? Are there any noise ordinances if the event is outside? These are all questions we’ll help answer together.

Request a Demo or Live Footage
You want to know what your guests will experience. Ask for videos of past performances or even attend a live set if we’re playing publicly before your event.

We regularly share demo reels and behind-the-scenes clips with our clients to give them confidence in their decision.

Discuss Attire and Branding
Some companies want a classic black-suit band look. Others are going for something trendier and brand-aligned. Let us know the dress code and event vibe so we can blend in perfectly.

We’ve even had clients ask us to color-coordinate with their brand colors—which we’re happy to do!

Confirm Logistics and Contract Details
Once you’ve selected your band, make sure everything’s outlined in writing: arrival time, set times, breaks, equipment responsibilities, payment schedule, and cancellation policies.

Our contracts are straightforward, and we’re happy to walk through them with you.

Prepare for Guest Interaction
At corporate events, guests often love chatting with the band, asking about the songs, or requesting a favorite standard. We’re professionals, but we’re also personable—and we love engaging with audiences when appropriate.
Post-Event Value
Live music creates lasting impressions. Your guests leave with more than a meal or a slideshow—they leave with a vibe, a mood, a memory.

We’ve had companies report stronger post-event engagement just from the energy created by the music. If you’re hosting a high-stakes event and want to impress clients, partners, or employees, jazz is a timeless, professional touch that makes people feel seen and appreciated.

Final Thoughts
Hiring a jazz band for your corporate event in Atlanta isn’t just about filling space with sound. It’s about creating an experience that matches your company’s personality, goals, and culture.

We take our role seriously and pride ourselves on being flexible, polished, and deeply attuned to the needs of professional events. So the next time you’re building that corporate event checklist, don’t relegate music to the bottom—make it part of the strategy.