About the Ensemble
Music City Big Band is a professional 19-20 piece jazz ensemble featuring traditional big band instrumentation with modern versatility. Our personnel includes seasoned musicians who double on multiple instruments, creating rich textural possibilities from intimate jazz standards to powerful contemporary arrangements.
Standard Personnel:
- 5 Reed Players (2 Alto, 2 Tenor, 1 Baritone + woodwind doubles including flutes)
- 4 Trumpets
- 4 Trombones
- 4-Piece Rhythm Section (Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums)
- Conductor/MC (Trumpet/Trombone with separate talking and playing microphones)
- Guest Vocalist (when requested)
- Auxiliary Percussion (when requested)
What We Provide
- All personal instruments and accessories
- Professional stage setup coordination
- Experienced technical director for advance planning
- Comprehensive technical documentation
- Flexible repertoire suitable for various audience types and venues
Our Commitment
We arrive prepared, on time, and ready to work with your technical team to ensure a successful performance. Our detailed technical documentation eliminates guesswork and helps your staff prepare effectively. We're experienced working with venues of all sizes, from intimate jazz clubs to major performing arts centers.
Professional Standards: We provide comprehensive technical requirements in advance, and work collaboratively with venue staff to ensure smooth execution from load-in to performance.
Planning Your Event
Advance Notice: 30 days minimum for technical confirmation
Site Information: Venue specs, photos, or site visit recommended for complex setups
Technical Meeting: Available by phone/video call to discuss specific venue considerations
Space & Technical Requirements
Minimum Stage Dimensions:
28' wide x 16' deep
Preferred Setup: Split stage layout with rhythm section stage left, horn sections stage right, riser for trumpet section
Sound System Needs:
- 32+ channel mixing console
- 27 microphone inputs (dynamic and condenser mix)
- 5 discrete monitor mixes with 9 floor wedges
- Professional sound engineer experienced with jazz ensembles
Venue-Provided Backline:
- Acoustic piano (tuned day of show) or professional stage piano
- Full drum kit with standard jazz setup
- Bass amplification (300W minimum)
- Guitar amplification (tube amp preferred)
Setup & Timeline
Load-In to Performance: 2.5 hours required
- Setup: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Sound Check: 45 minutes (efficient line check process)
- Changeover Time: 45 minutes (allows band to change into performance attire)
Load-In Requirements:
- Vehicle access to stage area
- Assistance with venue-provided equipment placement
- 8 AC power outlets distributed across stage
- Adequate stage lighting for music reading
What We Need From You
Technical: Sound system meeting our specifications, backline equipment, stage furniture, and professional audio support
Hospitality: Private dressing room with changing facilities, comprehensive catering for 20 people, secure instrument storage, and reserved parking
Communication: Advance technical coordination, day-of venue contact, and adherence to agreed timeline