Hire the Band

Hire Garfield Jazz Band to perform at your private or public event. Our nationally renowned student musicians will make your event a memorable one!

Groups include 3 to 7 musicians and perform a wide variety of Jazz classics. Groups may include a vocalist at your request.

The full Garfield Jazz big band or Vocal Jazz group may also be available to perform at your event. Email gigs@garfieldjazz.org for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many musicians will be playing?

Your Garfield Jazz Band can include anywhere from 3 to 7 musicians. Your fee will be based on how many musicians perform. The size of your venue and the performance space may limit who can play at your event. Pianos, drums, and double bass take up the most space.

Is it possible to include a vocalist?

Yes, please include this request in your booking form.

How much does it cost to hire a Garfield Jazz Band?

Base rates include up to 2 hours of music.

  • $800 for a 3 or 4 person band

  • $900 for a 5 person band

  • $1000 for a 6 person band

  • $1100 for a 7 person band

  • Add 50% of base rate for each additional hour

Your fees pay student musicians and help to fund Jazz education opportunities.

When and where can the band perform?

Our musicians are high school students who perform outside school hours: evenings and weekends. They can perform for up to 3 hours. They perform in the Seattle area. They can not perform in 21+ only venues.

What music does the band play?

A wide range of jazz standards. See sample play lists below.

Will the band be available to make announcements at my event?

Yes, if you provide a microphone.

What do the musicians wear? 

You may request either “black formal” or “khaki casual.”

What do I need to provide in order for the band to perform?

  • Minimum 10 foot x 10 foot space

  • Access to a power outlet or extension cord with at least two outlets

  • For dark venues, lighting to read music

  • For large and outdoor venues, amplification

  • For outdoor venues, a tent or covered area and a solid flat surface to protect musicians and instruments from sunlight, weather and ground moisture

  • A safe and dry space to store instrument cases during the performance

  • Bench or chair may be needed for pianists

What if the event runs late? 

Ask the musicians if they are able to stay longer and compensate them individually $50 per hour per musician for the additional time.

What types of payment do you accept

Checks or PayPal. Details included in your letter of agreement.

Will musicians accept tips?

Yes. Tips are not required but appreciated. 

Will the musicians accept food or drink?

Yes. Food and drink is not required but appreciated, especially for dinner-time performances.

Sample Playlists

One Hour Sets

  • Nostalgia in Times Square

  • Have You Met Miss Jones?

  • I Remember Clifford

  • Out of Nowhere

  • Black Orpheus

  • Take the “A” Train

  • Solar

  • Sophisticated Lady

  • Triste

  • Lullaby of Birdland

  • Stompin’ at the Savoy

  • In a Mellow Tone

Two Hour Sets

  • All of Me

  • Is You Is or Is You Ain’t My Baby

  • Au Privave

  • Beautiful Love

  • Con Alma

  • Cotton Tail

  • Don’t Get Around Much Anymore

  • Groovin’ High

  • How High the Moon

  • In a Mellow Tone

  • Oleo

  • Quiet Night of Quiet Stars

  • Solar

  • Someday My Prince Will Come

  • Take the “A” Train

  • There is No Greater Love

  • There Will Never Be Another You

  • Up Jumped Spring

  • Donna Lee

“I just attended a wonderful evening listening to students at a private retirement party and would like to support this group.”
“They really are a talented bunch and were perfect for the event.”
“They did an amazing job! They were a huge part of setting the atmosphere for the night, and the audience loved them.”
“They did an absolutely fantastic job and truly set the perfect mood for the evening. Many comments from our attendees on how well these amazing and aspiring musicians performed.”
“The band was excellent last night. The music was great and the teamwork throughout the evening watching our cues to lower the volume and stop/start during the toast was spot on!”

Testimonials