FAQs
Pricing & quote
Why is there no fixed price on the Jazz Centrale website?
The Jazz Centrale uses customized pricing instead of a fixed price list. The exact price depends on the lineup, performance duration, travel distance, and specific preferences for the event. By discussing this by phone or email first, we can provide a quote that matches your event's exact needs, rather than a generic price that's the same for everyone.
Pricing & quote
What does it cost to book a jazz band for a corporate event?
The costs for a jazz band at a corporate event vary widely depending on the situation: the number of musicians, the desired performance duration, whether sound and technical equipment are needed, and the location all play a role. That's why the Jazz Centrale always offers personal advice first, ensuring the lineup and price truly match your event and available budget.
Pricing & quote
How is the price of a performance determined?
The price is determined by factors such as the number of musicians, the chosen instruments (for example, with or without a saxophone or vocalist), the duration, whether extra technical equipment is needed, and the travel distance to the venue. Because every combination of these factors creates a unique event, the price is determined on a custom basis per inquiry.
Pricing & quote
Can I get an indication beforehand before getting in touch?
Because the price heavily depends on your specific event preferences, a rough estimate without that information can quickly be misleading. A quick chat about the type of event, the number of guests, and the desired atmosphere provides a much more accurate and fair picture than a general guideline price beforehand.
Pricing & quote
Does the Jazz Centrale work with fixed packages or custom solutions?
The Jazz Centrale doesn't use off-the-shelf packages, but rather builds the lineup based on your event. With personal advice, you choose which instruments and musicians best fit the occasion, the number of guests, and the desired atmosphere.
Positioning
What is the difference between the Jazz Centrale and an agency directory or booking platform?
An agency directory shows a broad range of individual artists and bands that customers have to choose from and compare themselves, often across multiple genres. The Jazz Centrale is a specialized agency: a single dedicated contact person personally guides you through putting together the right jazz lineup, so you don't have to compare or email dozens of providers yourself.
Positioning
Why book a specialized jazz agency instead of a general entertainment agency?
A specialized jazz agency knows the genre, the musicians, and the nuances of live jazz inside out, from lineup to repertoire. At a general entertainment agency offering dozens of genres, jazz is often just one of many categories, with less in-depth knowledge of what makes a great jazz lineup for a specific occasion.
Lineup
How many musicians do I need for my event?
That depends on the number of guests, the venue, and the desired effect. A duo or trio is often ideal as background music for a smaller gathering or a dinner, while a quartet or larger lineup provides more volume and energy for a larger crowd or when you want the music to stand out a bit more.
Lineup
What is the difference between a jazz duo, trio, and quartet?
A jazz duo typically consists of two instruments, such as piano and double bass, creating an intimate, understated vibe. A trio usually adds drums or a saxophone for more energy, and a quartet offers the most variety and volume, for example with an extra horn player or vocalist.
Lineup
Can I put together the instruments and lineup myself?
Yes, at the Jazz Centrale, the lineup is put together in consultation. You can let us know which atmosphere, instruments, or style you're looking for, and we'll provide personal advice to find the best combination for your event.
Lineup
Is a singer required, or can it be purely instrumental?
Both are possible. A purely instrumental lineup often works best as atmospheric background music, while a vocalist brings the music more to the foreground and brings recognizable classics from the Great American Songbook to life. Which option fits best depends on the character of the event.
Business & corporate
Is a jazz band suitable as background music during a business dinner or drinks reception?
Yes, this is one of our most popular requests. A jazz band can play at a volume that allows guests to easily chat and converse while still creating a stylish, professional atmosphere.
Business & corporate
Can the Jazz Centrale play during a gala evening or company anniversary?
Yes, the Jazz Centrale regularly provides live music for gala dinners, anniversaries, and other corporate events. For these types of occasions, clients often choose a larger or more distinctive lineup, optionally with a vocalist, to highlight the special nature of the evening.
Business & corporate
How loud does a jazz band play — can guests still easily hold a conversation?
The volume is tailored to the occasion. As background music during a dinner or drinks reception, the band intentionally plays softly so that conversations are easy to maintain. If you want the music to be more prominent, the band can certainly deliver that volume and energy.
Coverage & location
In which countries and regions does the Jazz Centrale perform?
The Jazz Centrale performs throughout the Netherlands and Belgium, in Luxembourg, and in western Germany (North Rhine-Westphalia). Performances outside these regions are also possible upon request.
Coverage & location
Can the Jazz Centrale also perform in Germany, Belgium, or Luxembourg?
Yes. Alongside the Netherlands, the Jazz Centrale regularly performs in Belgium, Luxembourg, and western Germany. Because the musicians are used to traveling, booking a performance on location in these regions is easily arranged.
Booking process
How far in advance should I book a jazz band?
To ensure the best selection of musicians and lineup, it's wise to book well in advance, especially during busy periods like the holidays or wedding season. Please get in touch to check exact availability for a specific date, and we'll look at the options for your situation.
Booking process
Are last-minute bookings possible?
The Jazz Centrale specializes in acting quickly for late requests, thanks to our large team of musicians we can call upon. Even for short-notice requests, it's definitely worth getting in touch to discuss the possibilities.
Booking process
What does the band need on location (power, space, sound)?
Generally, a power outlet near the performance area is all that's needed; the band brings their own instruments and sound equipment, tailored to the size of the room and the group. Any specifics about the venue, such as space, available tech, or potential restrictions, are discussed beforehand.
Booking process
Can guests request specific songs?
Yes, there is often room for requests, especially within the broad repertoire of jazz standards and swing. Specific wishes can be shared in advance so the musicians can prepare.