One of the first questions when planning live music is: how big a band? The answer affects the sound, the space and the budget. As a jazz singer and bandleader I lead line-ups from duo to quintet, and in this article I will help you choose.
I am David Kleňha, and I put together the right line-up to match the type of event — let us go through them.
Jazz duo — intimate and chamber-like
The duo (voice and piano or voice and guitar) is the gentlest option. It suits an intimate ceremony, a welcome drink, a reception and small celebrations where music should set the atmosphere. More on the dedicated site jazzduo.cz.
Jazz trio — the versatile sweet spot
The trio (voice, piano, double bass) is the most versatile. Full enough for the evening programme, yet still elegant and unobtrusive. It handles the ceremony, the reception and a smaller dance party. It is our home line-up — jazztrio.cz.
Build the line-up yourself
In the interactive tool on our website you can put the band together by event type and instantly see and hear how it will sound.
Build a bandJazz quartet — power for the dance floor
The quartet adds drums or another instrument and gives a fuller, more danceable sound. Ideal for balls, larger wedding parties and corporate events with dancing. Details at jazzquartet.cz.
Jazz quintet — a big sound for a big hall
The quintet is our largest line-up — a full, rich sound that fills a large hall. It suits gala balls, large corporate events and concerts. More at jazzquintet.cz.
Quick overview
| Line-up | Best for | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Duo | ceremony, reception, intimate celebration | gentlest, intimate |
| Trio | wedding, smaller event | versatile, elegant |
| Quartet | ball, larger party | full, danceable |
| Quintet | large hall, concert | strongest sound |
Line-ups are often combined — an intimate duo or trio by day and a full band in the evening. We are glad to advise what pays off for your event.
About the author
David Kleňha is a jazz singer and bandleader based in Prague, performing across the Czech Republic and abroad. He leads ensembles from duo to quintet and specialises in live music for weddings, balls and corporate events. Learn more on his personal site davidklenha.cz.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a trio and a quartet?
A trio (voice, piano, double bass) is elegant and versatile. A quartet adds an extra instrument for a fuller, more danceable sound at larger events.
Can we combine line-ups during the day?
Yes, a popular combination is an intimate duo or trio by day and a full band in the evening.
Which line-up is the cheapest?
Generally the duo, as two musicians play. The final price still depends on the length of the performance and the venue.