Looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your upcoming event? Look no further than the American Jazz Company, a talented group of musicians hailing from Nashville, TN. With a repertoire spanning from the Great American songbook to traditional jazz, our multi-faceted musical talents will create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Our band is comprised of professional musicians, each with a wealth of experience and an impressive resume. They have shared the stage with renowned artists like Dolly Parton, Rob Orbison, Randy Owen, Vince Gill, and Michael McDonald, just to name a few. Our exceptional skills and passion for music ensures that every performance is of the highest caliber.
One of our recent engagement was providing captivating background music for a private event at the Cool Springs Marriott. With over 500 attendees, we set the perfect ambiance and created a delightful atmosphere for the occasion. It's a testament to our ability to adapt our performance to different settings and ensure a seamless, enjoyable experience for all.
Whether you're planning a corporate event, wedding reception, birthday party, or any other special occasion, the American Jazz Company is here to make it extraordinary. Our live background music will take your event over the top, providing the perfect backdrop for mingling, dining, and dancing. You can trust us to deliver a casual and relaxed experience that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us today and book the American Jazz Company for an unforgettable musical journey. Let our talented band bring the magic of jazz to your event, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Band Member Bios
JIM KIRBY - PIANIST
Jim has been playing piano for his entire adult life. He toured with Roy Orbison for many years and performed in venues such as The Tonight Show, Saturday Night Live and The Joan Rivers Show. Jim has also performed with such artists as Vince Gill, Kathy Mattea, Gatlin Brothers and Michael McDonald.
Jim has a degree in Music Education and is active in a wide variety of educational endeavors.
His creative jazz improvisation on the piano helps make American Jazz Company a truly outstanding band.
SHAWN PODY - BASS AND VOCALIST
Shawn is an accomplished song writer, singer and bass player. He has played with such greats as Trace Adkins, Randy Owen and Jerry Reed, The Coasters, and The Shirelles just to name a few.
Shawn released two albums this past year – Walk in the Light and Front Porch Hymns. He performs at a wide variety of venues and is active producing and recording projects in a variety of genres including multiple award-winning Gospel and Country Albums.
Shawn brings another dimension and variety to American Jazz Company.
KAREN HAUGEN - AMERICAN JAZZ COMPANY FOUNDER
Karen has been singing for her entire adult life. She brings a sophisticated jazz interpretation which thrills audiences. Prior experience includes performances in various high-end restaurants in CA. Karen will make your guests feel welcome and engaged.
Karen’s stage performance and vocal interpretations are sure to impress any audience.
DAN HAUGEN - AMERICAN JAZZ COMPANY FOUNDER
Dan is the other founder of American Jazz Company. Dan has been a percussionist and drummer for over 40 years. His experience as a studio and performing drummer include a wide variety of styles from latin, classic rock, pop, jazz and country. He and Karen have done several studio recordings with a wide variety of professional musicians.
GREG PARMAN - SAXOPHONIST / FLUTIST
Greg Parman, began his music career in Seattle, WA where he played with many local Northwest bands including Seattle legends, Little Bill & The Blue Notes, and Marilee Rush.
After moving to Los Angeles, Greg performed with numerous local bands and played on several recording projects – one of which received the 2004 Orange County Music Award for Best Latin Band. He’s worked with Mark Massey, Chris Williams, and Dr. Scott Tibbs at Steamer’s Jazz Café, and with Luis Villegas at La Ve Lee Jazz Club. Greg has also led his own band at the Brea Jazz Festival, and the Riviera Jazz Festival where he was backed by Pianist, Ron Kobayashi.
Now hailing from Nashville, Greg continues to delight audiences with his sound. Whether as band leader or as side man Greg brings to every musical situation a wealth of experience and professionalism.