Q: How many musicians are in the Ragtime Ramblers?
A: The Ragtime Ramblers entertain audiences throughout North America, with full bands in the USA and Canada. A Ragtime Ramblers Band typically is contracted anywhere from an instrumental trio (3-piece group) to a 6-piece group. The Ragtime Ramblers trio instrumentation consists of banjo, clarinet or trumpet and tuba or upright bass. A quartet – the most common configuration for parade floats – is comprised of banjo, clarinet, trumpet and tuba or upright bass. Trombone is added for a quintet – our most popular configuration for concerts – and is a traditional instrument important in this music. The sixth musician is a drummer, added at client discretion and recommended for large events where the band is onstage and the focus of a show versus background entertainment.
Q: Do the Ragtime Ramblers Travel and how are expenses handled?
A: The Ragtime Ramblers do travel and those costs are incorporated into a reasonably-priced package. All members have performed throughout North America and internationally abroad. We’re always looking for ways to save our clients money while providing the best in Trad Dixieland Jazz music. All travel expenses, accommodations, per diem and meals are the responsibility of the client. Our in-office tour and press management support is included in our reasonable pricing to help you maximize the success of your event.
Q: How do you determine pricing?
A: Pricing packages depend on your needs. We customize pricing to give our clients maximum value for their live music dollar. We are known for outstanding entertainment at a reasonable cost, and for going the extra mile to help our clients meet their budgets.
Q: What does “strolling” entertainment mean?
A: “Strolling” entertainment refers to Ragtime Ramblers ensembles that do not require a sound system, so they can be positioned in different locations at different times during the event. While our vocal harmonies are a key part of our onstage show (requiring a sound system), our extensive expertise in strolling entertainment encompasses a wide range of venues and events. Strolling entertainment is a very common and economical background music option.
Q: What types of events do the Ragtime Ramblers perform at?
A: The Ramblers are favorites at jazz festivals, street fairs, community festivals, picnics, country club barbeques and outdoor events of all kinds. We’re popular for sports events, pubs and any events where New Orleans or Mardi Gras music might be appropriate. Other typical engagements include corporate ice cream socials, private events such as anniversary or birthday parties, cocktail music for weddings with our signature “Mardi Gras Cocktail Hour”, music for charity galas and non-profit fundraisers, concerts for senior living communities and for end-of-life events, New Orleans Jazz Funerals are a tradition in this music genre.
Q: Who handles your press and tour management if we book you for our event?
A: For events requiring travel within Canada, Jim Hopson handles tour management. For events requiring travel in the USA, Dave Ivaz handles tour management. Press support is provided through Dave Ivaz Music. We’re always here to answer your questions, email us via our Contact Form, or give us a call at 866-559-2346 (toll-free) or at 778-929-6032. When you contract the Ragtime Ramblers, you always work directly with a company principal. We look forward to meeting you!
