The Jazz Gents

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to our Web site may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please e-mail us at pete@saxonridge.co.uk or call us at 01984 631400

What sort of music do you play?

We call it light swing or gentle jazz, with music from the twenties, thirties and forties made popular by such people as Fats Waller, Cole Porter, etc., but a programme would depend on the occasion.

For instance, if we were playing at a wedding, we would always consult the bride in advance as to what would be required such as type of music and any special requests; this would then be arranged accordingly. Also, light background music is appropriate whilst guests are arriving at the reception; no one wants to shout above the music when greeting and exchanging news with friends and relatives. Again, when the meal or buffet is served, background music (or wallpaper music as we call it!) is appropriate (and does not disturb the digestion).

Later, however, the guests may want to dance or just be entertained, and we would then step up the action accordingly. If we see that people are singing along to our music, we would include more songs that are well known.

However, if required, we can switch to ‘trad’ jazz or Dixieland, or to jazz of the fifties and sixties with a more ‘modern’ sound.

As stated above, we tailor our music to suit the occasion, but please note that we don’t ‘do Heavy Metal’ or recent pop hits. If it was required, we would leave that to the following disco (if there was one). 

How much do you charge?

Basic cost: £200 at a location within a 20 mile radius of Taunton. Additional mileage negotiable.

Total playing time: 3 hours including two 15 minute breaks.

Additional time: £40 per half hour before 11 pm                                                    £50 per half hour after 11 pm

Would there be a contract?

Yes, to safeguard both us and yourselves. For instance, we would commit to be there and play as arranged beforehand and, in turn, we would expect you to honour any agreements on your part. A small deposit would be required as a sign of good faith but this would be forfeited if there was a late cancellation on your part. This is because we could have turned down other engagements.

On the other hand, if we had to cancel for any reason beyond our control, we would either return the deposit or endeavour to find another band to take our place - with your agreement, of course.

What facilities would you need?

A reasonable space for us, a 13 amp power outlet, and somewhere to park our vehicle(s) - if possible near the venue as we have some heavy equipment (please note - ‘heavy’ does not mean ‘loud’). 

If it’s a long evening, maybe a little light refreshment?

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