Whether it’s a waterfront wedding in White Rock or a high-stakes corporate gala in Guildford, the soundtrack defines the atmosphere. But finding the right sound doesn’t mean you need a middleman.
There is a distinct advantage to booking independent talent: you get a direct line of communication with the artists, a more personalized performance, and you often save money by avoiding heavy agency commissions.
If you are looking for top-tier jazz bands for hire in Surrey, you’re in the right place. I’ve rounded up 10 of the most authentic independent acts serving the Lower Mainland—ranging from intimate gypsy jazz ensembles to high-energy big bands.
We’ll also touch on how platforms like AGNT help you cut through the noise to book verified locals securely. Let’s get into the list.
Top 10 Independent Jazz Bands Serving Surrey
I’ve hand-picked these independent acts based on their solid reputation in the BC scene, guaranteeing seasoned pros and authentic performances rather than generic background noise.
Van Django
Since 1998, Van Django has established itself as Canada’s premier acoustic string ensemble. While they are rooted in the gypsy jazz tradition of 1930s Paris (think Django Reinhardt), they aren’t stuck in the past.
This quartet—featuring standout violinist Cameron Wilson—is famous for mixing technical brilliance with a sense of humor, often throwing unexpected rock homages or classical mashups into their set.
They are perfect if you want an act that demands attention rather than just blending into the wallpaper. If you are scouting for unique jazz bands for hire in Surrey that can swing from elegant to energetic, their track record (including performances with the VSO) speaks for itself.
Company B Jazz Band
If your event needs a heavy dose of retro glamour, Company B is the gold standard. Modeled after the Andrews Sisters and Boswell Sisters, this stylized vocal trio has been harmonizing since 2007.
They don’t just stand there and sing; they bring a cheeky, theatrical energy to the stage, often doubling on ukuleles and percussion alongside a tight rhythm section. They are a staple at swing dances and vintage festivals across the Lower Mainland, proving they know how to work a crowd.
If you are filtering through jazz bands in Surrey, BC for an act that offers more than just background music—specifically for a retro-themed corporate event or wedding reception—this group is a total knockout.
The Leading Ladies Little Big Band
Sometimes a trio just isn’t enough to fill the room. Enter The Leading Ladies, Vancouver’s only all-female 10-piece big band. Led by trombonist Casey Thomas-Burns, this group is a powerhouse.
They bridge the gap between a small combo and a full 18-piece orchestra, giving you that lush, high-energy big band sound without the logistical nightmare of fitting a massive ensemble onto a standard stage.
Their setlist is a smart mix of golden-era swing classics and fresh originals by local composers. If you need jazz bands for hire in surrey that can command a large venue—like a gala at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford or a festival stage—this collective brings a level of polish and visual impact that is hard to beat.
The Caulfield Trio
Sometimes you don’t want a brass section blowing the roof off; you just want that cool, sophisticated atmosphere where guests can actually hear each other talk. That’s where The Caulfield Trio shines.
Comprising Joe McDonald (piano/vocals), Phil Robertson (drums), and Brent Gubbels (bass), this group specializes in “Cocktail Jazz”—the kind of polished background music that elevates a room without dominating it.
They cover everything from “Girl From Ipanema” to Charlie Brown Christmas classics. If you’re looking for jazz bands Surrey venues often recommend for networking events or dinner receptions, this trio is the definition of professional and unobtrusive.
Bruce James Orchestra
For over two decades, the Bruce James Orchestra has been the definition of a “powerhouse” performance in the Fraser Valley. This 19-piece ensemble isn’t just a band; it’s a full-scale production.
Founded by Bruce James Flello, they are famous locally for their “Hangar Dances” at Pitt Meadows Airport and high-profile community gigs like the Summer Serenade.
They bring that authentic big band wall of sound—saxophones, trombones, trumpets, and vocalists—covering everyone from Count Basie to Michael Bublé.
If you are planning a major gala or a large wedding and want one of the best jazz bands in surrey to fill the dance floor with high-energy swing, this orchestra delivers a visual and auditory experience that smaller combos just can’t match.
The Mad Affair
If you want to transport your guests straight to a smoky Parisian lounge without leaving the Lower Mainland, The Mad Affair is your ticket. Fronted by the Parisian-born vocalist Alannah Lori, this group offers something a little different from the standard American songbook.
They weave together sultry jazz standards with authentic French chanson—think Piaf meets Fitzgerald. It’s elegant, it’s romantic, and it’s incredibly polished.
For those specifically looking for jazz bands for hire in surrey that can add a sophisticated European flair to a wine bar event, gallery opening, or an intimate wedding reception, this act is a breath of fresh air.
Kristian Braathen Trio
It is rare to find a trio led by a drummer, but Kristian Braathen is an exception. Having studied with legends like Jeff Hamilton (who played for Diana Krall), Braathen brings a deep, rhythmic pocket to the Great American Songbook.
This group is all about taste and timing—never overpowering, but always driving the music forward with a polished, professional sound. They also have a knack for rearranging contemporary pop tunes into acoustic jazz numbers, which is a great way to keep a diverse crowd engaged.
If you need a jazz band Surrey locals trust for upscale dining or cocktail receptions where the music needs to be tight but not intrusive, this trio is a safe bet.
PK3 Jazz Trio
If you are working with limited square footage—say, a packed restaurant patio or a smaller wedding venue—you need a group that keeps the footprint small but the energy high.
PK3 is that band. While they share DNA with the Braathen Trio, this outfit leans heavily into versatility, specifically their ability to take modern pop hits and re-work them into cool, acoustic jazz numbers.
It’s a great trick for keeping a diverse crowd engaged; grandma hears jazz, but your college friends recognize the melody. For event planners needing jazz bands for hire in surrey that can slide into a corner and still deliver a full, polished sound that appeals to everyone, this compact unit is a problem solver.
Ben Lockwood Group
If you are planning a corporate function where reliability is just as important as the music, the Ben Lockwood Group is a safe pair of hands. Ben is a UK-born multi-instrumentalist who switches effortlessly between saxophone, flute, and clarinet, giving his ensemble a surprisingly diverse sound even if you only book a trio.
He’s built a reputation in the Delta and Surrey area for being the consummate professional—punctual, polished, and able to read a room perfectly.
Whether you need upbeat swing for a cocktail hour or smooth bossa nova for a dinner service, this group delivers high-quality background music that enhances the event without demanding the spotlight.
Gabriel Mark Hasselbach
It’s not often you can book a certified legend for your local event, but Gabriel Mark Hasselbach is the real deal.
A Juno Award winner with over a dozen albums and 11 Billboard hits to his name, Gabriel is a heavyweight in the smooth jazz world. Based in the area, he brings a level of world-class polish that is hard to match, switching between trumpet, flute, and flugelhorn with effortless style.
He’s worked with everyone from Michael Bublé to major symphony orchestras. If you are looking for jazz bands for hire in Surrey that bring a prestigious, headline-quality vibe to a luxury wedding or high-end corporate gala, Gabriel is the premium choice on this list.
How to Choose the Right Jazz Band for Your Surrey Event
Booking live music isn’t just about picking a group with a cool name; it’s about matching the sound to the specific needs of your event. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you sign a contract.
Vibe Check: Ambiance vs. Action
The first question you need to ask yourself is: “What do I want the guests to do?” If you want them to network, chat, and eat without shouting over the music, you need a trio or a quartet that specializes in background ambience—something like the Caulfield Trio or PK3.
However, if the goal is to pack the dance floor and create a spectacle, a background trio will get swallowed up. For that high-energy, “main event” feel, you need to look at larger ensembles like the Bruce James Orchestra or Company B, who are designed to be the center of attention.
Logistics Matter
Surrey has some fantastic venues, from sprawling golf courses to elegant banquet halls, but they all have different acoustic and physical limitations. Before you book a 10-piece band, check your floor plan.
A group like The Leading Ladies needs significant stage space and, more importantly, adequate power. You don’t want to blow a fuse right in the middle of a sax solo.
Conversely, if you are in a smaller, intimate room, a large horn section might simply be too loud. Always clear the space and power requirements with your venue manager before locking in the talent.
Booking Direct
In the past, booking a high-quality band often meant going through an agency that would tack on a hefty commission fee. Today, platforms like AGNT allow you to browse, chat with, and book these independent artists directly.
This doesn’t just save you money by removing the markup; it also gives you peace of mind.
All payments and contracts are handled securely through the platform, meaning you aren’t handing over cash in an envelope or worrying about a musician flaking on the day of the show. It’s the safest way to get professional local talent without the professional headache.
Conclusion
Surrey and the Lower Mainland are teeming with incredible musical talent, from the gypsy swing of Van Django to the smooth sophistication of Gabriel Mark Hasselbach.
There is simply no need to settle for a generic Spotify playlist when you can have the energy and class of a live performance. Hiring a real band transforms an event from “nice” to unforgettable.
Hopefully, this list has given you a solid starting point for finding the perfect act. If you want to explore even more options or are ready to lock in your date, AGNT makes it easy to browse and book top-rated jazz bands for hire in Surrey. Skip the middleman, support local artists directly, and give your guests a night they won’t stop talking about.
Also check our article: Top Magicians for Hire in Surrey, BC
