Business Details
Premier Jazz Band for Weddings, Corporate Events & Festivals in Jacksonville, FL
Gary Starling Jazz has been a cornerstone of Jacksonville's jazz scene for decades, delivering sophisticated live music experiences tailored to corporate events, weddings, festivals, and private engagements. Founded by Gary Starling, a retired Artist in Residence and professor of guitar at Jacksonville University, our ensemble draws from over 40 years of professional experience performing alongside legends like Wes Montgomery, Eddie Harris, and Bob Hope. Our musicians have graced prestigious venues such as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, World Golf Village, and the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, where Gary was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.We specialize in creating custom-configured ensembles ranging from intimate duos to full jazz orchestras, blending jazz standards, swing, bossa nova, and funky jazz with unmatched artistry. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by partnerships with the Jacksonville Symphony Pops Orchestra, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, and the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund, ensuring every event receives the highest caliber of musical sophistication.
Services
Jazz Trio
Jazz Quartet
Solo Guitar
Hammond B3 Organ Band
Custom Configurations
Highlights and features
- Inducted into the Jacksonville Jazz Festival Hall of Fame in 2012
- Performances with Bob Hope, Diahann Carroll, and the Jacksonville Symphony Pops Orchestra
- Custom-configured ensembles from solo guitar to full jazz orchestras
- Versatile repertoire spanning swing, bossa nova, and funky jazz
- Featured at prestigious venues including Ritz-Carlton Hotel and World Golf Village
What people say
Impeccable taste
Terrific work
Superb job
World-class artists
Touch of class
Services
Jazz Trio
Core jazz trio featuring guitar, upright bass, and drums delivers authentic swing and improvisation. Ideal for intimate settings like weddings and private parties. Versatile repertoire includes jazz standards, bossa nova, and contemporary arrangements.
Jazz Quartet
Four-piece ensemble adds saxophone, trumpet, or keyboard to the trio format. Perfect for corporate events and festivals requiring dynamic range. Performs swing, Latin jazz, and funk with vocal or instrumental arrangements.
Solo Guitar
Intimate solo guitar performances featuring jazz standards and modern interpretations. Suitable for cocktail hours, restaurant ambiance, and small gatherings. Combines technical mastery with melodic sensitivity.
Hammond B3 Organ Band
Funky organ-driven band with guitar, drums, and horns creates high-energy soul jazz and blues. Popular for clubs and festivals. Features improvisational solos and danceable rhythms.
Custom Configurations
Bespoke musical arrangements combining instruments like violin, vocals, and percussion. Adaptable to event themes and venue requirements. Available in sizes from duo to 10-piece orchestra.
People
Gary Starling
Founder & Lead Guitarist
Renowned jazz guitarist with 40+ years experience, inducted into Jacksonville Jazz Festival Hall of Fame (2012). Former professor at Jacksonville University, performed with Wes Montgomery, Eddie Harris, and Bob Hope.
Questions
What types of events do you perform at?
We specialize in corporate events, weddings, festivals, private parties, and charity fundraisers across Florida and the Southeast.
Can you customize the band size?
Yes, we offer configurations from solo guitar to 10-piece ensembles with horns, vocals, and percussion.
Do you perform outside Florida?
We regularly perform in South Carolina, Georgia, and at major Florida destinations like Miami Beach and Amelia Island.
What music styles do you play?
Our repertoire includes swing, bossa nova, samba, funky jazz, and pop standards with improvisational flair.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 6-12 months ahead for weekends during peak season (October-May).
