Bringing Dixieland Jazz to Corporate Events: A Musical Celebration
Dixieland jazz, with its exuberant rhythms and joyous melodies, is the perfect soundtrack for corporate events seeking to create a vibrant and festive atmosphere. As a passionate jazz musician, I’ve had the delightful opportunity to bring the lively spirit of Dixieland to various corporate settings, each experience adding a unique flavor to the events.
A Quartet at Cooperstown Country Club
One of my earliest engagements was at the Cooperstown Country Club, where I brought along my quartet consisting of trumpet, drums, and bass, with myself on guitar. This performance was not just a musical act but a transformative experience, converting the elegant ambiance of the country club into a lively jazz club from the roaring twenties. The blend of classic instruments and foot-tapping jazz created an engaging environment, resonating well with the guests who appreciated the uplifting and energetic atmosphere.
Early Morning Jazz at “Minis Take the States”
An unusual yet unforgettable Dixieland experience was during the “Minis Take the States” event at Vernon Downs. Owners of Mini vehicles were treated to a multi-state driving adventure, and our quintet (adding saxophone to the original lineup) played an early set at 7 AM. Despite the early hour, the vibrant sounds of Dixieland jazz filled the air with infectious energy, proving that jazz can enliven spirits at any time of day. This performance highlighted how Dixieland jazz could be seamlessly integrated into diverse event formats, adding a memorable touch to the adventurous spirit of the rally.
Here’s a video from the Cooperstown and Vernon Downs events.
Dixieland Duo at the National Buffalo Wing Festival
Most recently, I was hired by Popeye’s to perform at their booth during the National Buffalo Wing Festival at Bills Stadium in Buffalo. Over the two-day festival, I performed in a duo with two different sax players. This setup not only provided the flexibility required for such a dynamic event but also allowed each performance to maintain freshness and spontaneity. The joyous tunes of Dixieland jazz complemented the lively atmosphere of the festival, where thousands of attendees enjoyed delicious wings and engaging entertainment. Here’s a video from the National Buffalo Wing Festival.
Private Party in Ithaca
Not a corporate event, but we also played a private birthday party for a trumpeter who turned 90 recently, who requested that the band play Dixieland. Here is a video of the classic Dixieland song “Ice Cream” from that event. I particularly enjoyed the “shout chorus” in which we all improvised at the same time, in true New Orleans fashion. The 90 year old man loved the band and came up to the trumpet player and lavishly praised him. 🙂
The Perfect Choice for Corporate Events
These experiences have solidified my belief that Dixieland jazz is an ideal choice for corporate events. Its inherent joy and celebration make it perfect for companies looking to offer more than just a gathering but a memorable experience. Each performance brings out the uniqueness of Dixieland jazz—its ability to engage, uplift, and
entertain, making every event a notable success.
Dixieland jazz not only entertains but also creates an immersive experience that resonates with attendees long after the event concludes. Whether it’s a sophisticated gathering at a country club, a unique morning music session, or a lively festival, Dixieland jazz stands out as a celebratory and spirited music style perfect for any corporate occasion.
I look forward to bringing the joyful sounds of Dixieland to more events, spreading the cheer and unique vibrancy that only this style of music can offer.
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If you are planning a wedding, private party, or corporate event and you want to explore your options for musicians to provide live music, book a free music consultation with me or simply write to me on the contact page.
