Jazz Perspectives provides the right taste for music needs
An interview with William H. Small Jr., president/CEO of Jazz Perspectives, Inc. in Aurora.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the venue/business.
A: Jazz Perspectives, Inc., is a talent management organization committed to providing quality Jazz, Blues, R&B and Acoustic entertainment in a format that will further enhance these legendary styles of American music.
We are committed to working with exceptional talent in the markets that we serve (14-markets nationwide) and providing a comprehensive entertainment packages to our clients.
Q: What do you offer when it comes to corporate meetings, private parties, weddings, restaurants, etc.?
A: For over 25 years Jazz Perspectives has been providing quality entertainment focusing on Jazz, Blues, R&B and Acoustic performers. We pride ourselves on our commitment to work with the best entertainment available in the markets that we serve. Our list of performers consists of professional musicians, many with recordings that can be made available for your review. Depending on the size of your establishment and/or special event Jazz Perspectives will provide entertainment to meet your specific needs. Rather it be a solo performance or a big band/orchestra, we are committed to working within your budget requirements.
To name a few ...
Audition, book and manage all activities related to entertainment. Responsible for all payments to performers and provide end of year tax documents. Manage performance times, breaks and band attire. Provide entertainment bookings on an on-going basis or occasionally, depending on the needs of the client.
"We Focus On The Music So That You Don't Have To"
Q: What types of musical genres do you perform?
A: Initially we focused on jazz music, as implied by our name, but over the years we have expanded into Blues, R&B and Acoustic Music. Our current offerings of Jazz, Blues, R&B and Acoustic entertainment allows us to expand our customer base and meet the needs of all our clients.
Q: What are people in your industry talking about? What's trending?
A: The negative impact of the Coronavirus/COVID-19 on the hospitality and entertainment industries has been catastrophic. For most performers it has canceled all their work and due to the need to socially distance it makes it difficult to book entertainment the way we have in the past. In the past establishments would hire musicians to assist with bringing guest into the venue and keep them there longer. Currently restaurants and bars are operating primarily for pick up and delivery. If they are inside, they are operating under 25%-50% of maximum occupancy depending on the state. Emphasis is on turning the tables to increase revenue.
Going forward I am looking at smaller musical arrangements to control cost and allow for social distancing. In addition, weddings and other private events will become more important because of there ability to provide social distancing, no emphasis on turning tables and one-time budgets for special events.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself. What is your past experience in the industry?
A: Prior to Jazz Perspectives, I worked in corporate sales and sales management within the international transportation and coffee industries.
I graduated from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, IL with a B.S. in Business Administration/Marketing. Currently, I am the chairman of the Aurora Human Relations Commission. past member of the board of directors of the Quad County African American Chamber of Commerce, Unity Partnership, OPUS Chamber Music Camp and Christian Brothers College High School - BAS
Q: Tell us one interesting fact about the business that most people may not know.
A: We differentiate ourselves from booking agents whose sole desire is to promote a specific performer or band(s). Instead, we are customer-focused and work on behalf of our clients. We are committed to securing the best possible musical performance for the client, based upon their specific requirements. Recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and honored with a profile in the organization's 2015-2016 Resource Guide for Small Business, Illinois edition.
Jazz Perspectives, Inc
<b>P.O. Box 6392, Aurora, IL 60598</b><b>Owner: William H. Small Jr.</b>Number of employees: 100(+) independent contractors/musicians
When business opened: March 1994
Web address: <a href="http://www.JazzPerspectives.com">www.JazzPerspectives.com</a>