What factors determine cost?

Our bands range from roughly $2000-2500 per event, depending on the group, location, performance time, and date.

As a nonprofit organization providing sliding scale programming that supports youth development, we do our best to provide reasonable rates that honor the time and talents of our musicians.

As with all Seattle JazzED services and programming, to make this resource as accessible as possible, booking rates are available via sliding scale, accessed through the booking form.

Several factors determine cost:

• Band size: Larger groups (8-10 pieces) are more costly than smaller groups (3-4 pieces). Requests for additional performers will incur additional fees as listed under "Special Requests and Additional Fees."
• Event date and location: We typically need at least five weeks’ notice for bookings. As many of our performers are youth, we generally can't schedule gigs during school hours. All gigs must be in the Seattle area, unless special arrangements are made. Additional fees will apply for holiday, last-minute, or out of area bookings.
• Length of performance: JazzED combos are booked for 2 hours, including 30 minutes of load-in time, about 1.5 hours of performance and a short intermission break. JazzED second lines are 1-hour bookings, including 30 minutes of load-in time, about 30 minutes of performance and a short intermission break.

Is my event eligible for a sliding scale discount?

Organizations or community partners that have a focus on serving communities that have faced historical exclusion are eligible to book bands at a reduced rate. This can include, but is not limited to, organizations that work to increase access for BIPOC, low-income, LGBTQ+, individuals with disabilities, immigrant and refugee, and elderly communities.

Eligible organizations or community partners can receive either a 25% or 50% discount off of the standard event booking price. Additional fees for special requests will still apply.

Eligible organizations will self-select the discount percentage that best aligns with their capacity and resources. This approach allows flexibility and acknowledges that different organizations have varying financial circumstances.

If your organization aligns with any of the categories mentioned above and you believe you are eligible for the sliding scale discount, please reach out to Michael at michael@seattlejazzed.org.

How are musicians selected?

In alignment with our mission to empower ALL students with exceptional music education is the organization-wide commitment to dismantle systemic racism, sexism and economic inequality by centering equity in our work. While selecting skilled artists, we strive for balanced representation and at least 50% femme and BIPOC performers in any hired band. Additional fees will apply for special requests.

How much influence do I have over the song selection?

Reasonable requests will be considered, though artists will not typically learn additional repertoire for your event. We ask that you trust our ability to call songs that create the best music experience possible.

What sort of considerations are important for their performance?

There are several factors that are important as you plan your event with performers in mind. Factors include:

• Space: A combo requires approximately an 8'x8' space. Bands with more than four members require a 10'x10' space minimum.
• Power: Combo musicians will supply their own cords and will need access to a power outlet. A JazzED second line does not need access to power.
• Equipment: If you would like the band to make any announcements, a microphone will need to be provided. Seating for rhythm players should also be provided by you.
• Piano: Tell us if there will be a piano on-site, or if there will be room for an electronic keyboard (which can be provided by the pianist). No piano is needed for a JazzED second line.
• Water: Plan to provide bottled water for the musicians, or easy access to a water fountain.
• Outdoors: The same requirements for space and power apply. A tent or covered area is needed to protect musicians and their instruments from sunlight and weather. Nighttime performances will require lighting for musicians to read their music. A hard surface should be put down over grassy areas for flooring under the combo.
• Parking: The musicians will arrive at your event independently. It is helpful for musicians to know where they can temporarily park their cars to unload their equipment. Other useful specifics include: what door to enter through, ramps, elevators to use, as well as instructions of how to reach the performance site. Nearby parking and possible fees are also useful information to know in advance.

What time will the band arrive?

Our artists will arrive 30 minutes prior to their start time. Upon arrival, they’ll contact the point person for the event and begin loading in their equipment.

Can they perform longer than their scheduled time?

Possibly! Overtime refers to extending the full band performance beyond their allotted hours (2 hours for combo or 1 hour for second line). This is a service, for an additional fee, that can be negotiated during the event. However, we suggest you contract overtime ahead of time, if possible, which allows the band to structure their performance accordingly.

What do they wear?

All black, business casual, or black t-shirts with the JazzED logo on them. That's up to you.