Nashville’s Premier Jazz Band for Elegant Weddings, Private and Corporate Events & High-End Venues. The American Jazz Company is a distinguished group of professional musicians specializing in timeless, sophisticated live music. From the elegance of the Great American Songbook to the smooth sounds of classic jazz, we provide the perfect musical ambiance for upscale weddings, corporate galas, private soirées, and refined celebrations throughout the Greater Nashville and Franklin, TN area.
Our band brings a refined touch to every performance, featuring a classic lineup of vocals and live instrumentation. With a repertoire that pays homage to icons like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Cole Porter, Herbie Hancock and Duke Ellington, we create a luxurious, nostalgic atmosphere your guests will never forget. Whether you're seeking soft, elegant background music or a toe-tapping set to get guests on the dance floor, our dynamic range allows us to seamlessly tailor the experience to suit your event.
Trusted by Nashville’s Finest Venues From intimate garden weddings to grand hotel galas, we’ve performed at some of the most prestigious venues in Middle Tennessee and Southern California. At a recent private event, we entertained over 500 guests, delivering an effortlessly smooth signature sound that elevated the entire evening. It’s just one example of how we adapt to any setting, curating the perfect musical experience for every audience.
Our clients don’t just love our music—they love working with us. We’re proud of our consistent 5-star rating and the enthusiastic recommendations we receive from planners, couples, and corporate clients alike. “The American Jazz Company was everything we hoped for—and more.” "Fabulous, professional, responsive, and highly recommended.”
When you book us, you’re not just hiring a band—you’re hiring peace of mind. What We Offer Elegant Jazz Standards & Swing Great American Songbook Selections Cocktail Hour & Dinner Music Classic Pop, Light Rock & Country (By Request) Customizable Ensembles for Any Venue or Vibe Book your next event today! Don’t risk losing your preferred date — contact us now!
Band Member Bios
Our band lineup is flexible and may vary depending on the event, location, or specific needs of the performance. The musicians featured on this website are part of our talented collective, but may not appear at every gig.
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.
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.
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.
JOHN ENGLAND - BASS AND LEAD GUITAR
ZACK TYLER - SAXOPHONE AND FLUTE
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.
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.
CHRIS NOLE - KEYBOARDS