Category Archives: Chicago Jazz

Chicago Jazz Quartet at Mae District | Live Music for Corporate Events & Executive Dinners


Corporate, private, or something in between — we’ll build the right sound for your room. 

Venue: @maedistrict 
Catering: @fftchicago @hannafftevents 

chicagolivemusic chicagojazz jazzquartet chicagocorporateevents chicagoentertainmentCorporate, private, or something in between — we’ll build the right sound for your room.

Venue: Mae District
Catering: Food For Thought

When Microsoft brings its top executives together, every detail matters — especially the atmosphere.

For this year’s Microsoft Ignite Executive Dinner at Mae District, our Chicago-based jazz quartet set the tone with a sound that was equal parts polished, relaxed, and quietly magnetic. The ensemble — piano, upright bass, drums, and saxophone — created a sophisticated backdrop that supported conversation while elevating the entire experience.

This event came together in collaboration with the incredible team at Food For Thought, who brought us in for their client. We’re always grateful to partner with planners and caterers who care deeply about every layer of the guest experience — and this evening was a perfect reflection of that.

From the moment guests arrived, the music established a sense of ease and momentum. Think modern standards, timeless jazz, and subtle improvisation — all delivered at a level that enhances the room without ever overpowering it.

As the evening unfolded, the quartet adjusted in real time — opening up the energy between courses, then pulling things back to allow for connection. That flexibility is what live music does best, and it’s exactly why so many corporate clients choose it over playlists or pre-recorded tracks.

Mae District’s clean, modern space paired perfectly with the warmth of live jazz, creating an environment that felt both elevated and inviting — ideal for an executive-level gathering.

Why Live Jazz Works for Corporate Events

For executive dinners, networking receptions, and corporate entertainment in Chicago, a jazz quartet offers something uniquely effective:

  • Professional, refined atmosphere that aligns with high-level audiences
  • Flexible volume and energy tailored in real time
  • Timeless sound that resonates across generations
  • Seamless integration with event flow, speeches, and dining

Whether it’s a global conference like Microsoft Ignite or an intimate executive gathering, the right music doesn’t just fill the space — it shapes the experience.


If you’re planning a corporate event in Chicago and want music that feels as good as it looks, we’d love to help design the perfect ensemble for your evening.

Acoustic Vibes Meet Iconic Views at Gibson’s Italia | Chicago Corporate Entertainment


Just kidding — it’s freezing, but this clip still feels like summer. ️ This view alone is worth the reservation 🥰

 Venue: @gibsonsitalia 
chicagoentertainment livemusicchicago chicagocorporateevents chicagomusicians acousticvibesJust kidding — it’s freezing, but this clip still feels like summer. This view alone is worth the reservation 🥰

There’s something about live music by the river that instantly elevates a moment — especially when it’s paired with one of Chicago’s most stunning dining backdrops. This reel captures our singing guitar player Ryan bringing laid-back acoustic vibes to Gibson’s Italia — blending warm, summery sound with the sleek, modern energy of the Chicago Riverwalk.

For planners looking to upgrade their next event, moments like this showcase why Chicago corporate entertainment is all about atmosphere. A solo acoustic performer creates an inviting, upscale feel that’s perfect for client dinners, networking events, and brand celebrations without overpowering conversation.As a go-to destination for Chicago corporate events, Gibson’s Italia offers the perfect mix of skyline views and refined cuisine. When we add live music energy to that mix, we have the best of both worlds — proving that sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from the simplest setup: a guitar, a voice, and a city that knows how to set the scene.

FROM STUNNING SEA LIFE TO A SHOW-STOPPING CHICAGO COVER BAND, THE SHEDD GALA HAD IT ALL 🐠🎵


Making waves at Shedd Aquarium’s Wonder of Water Gala Thank you for including us!
.
.
.

carolsarlasorchestra sheddgala wonderofwatergala sheddaquarium sheddaquariumgala chicagoliveband chicagoentertainment chicagoweddingband chicagocorporateband chicagocorporateentertainment chicagogala chicagoluxury chicagoeventplanner chicagoevents chicagosocial chicagocoverbandMaking waves at Shedd Aquarium’s Wonder of Water Gala with the Carol Sarlas Orchestra live Chicago band.

Guests enjoyed dinner at many locations inside of the Shedd Aquarium, and then everyone joined us in the tent for a night of dancing under the stars. Between the iconic skyline from Museum Campus and the electric energy of the crowd, it was an unforgettable night. Check out the video to dive into the highlights of this Chicago gala event.

Header photo from the great Andre LaCour of LaCour Images, we are so grateful every time we partner together. Thank you to the Shedd for including us!

Cello Jazz & Micro Wedding Music – Tangerine – Solo Cello Improv

Tangerine for solo jazz cello, performed by cellist Matthew Agnew. This sweet solo cello improv is sure to bring a smile! We’ll soon be able to have small micro weddings and mini weddings again, including solo and duo musicians from our Chicago wedding band, and solo cello is an excellent choice for these small wedding celebrations!

Starting as relaxing cello music, the peaceful cello music shifts to a pizzicato bossa nova in this cello jazz version of Tangerine. For cello pop covers, cello music, micro wedding music, and more solo cello videos like this, please subscribe to our YouTube channel to be the first to see our weekly videos! Looking for a place to learn about wedding music, wedding songs, wedding ceremony music, and wedding reception songs? Hop over to our education site for lots of ideas. For booking information, please reach out to us.

Cello Jazz – Night and Day (Cole Porter) – Micro Wedding and Cocktail Hour Music

Continuing on with our cello jazz series, Matthew Agnew (cello) and Gabriel Datcu (guitar) are back with a fun rendition of Cole Porter’s Night and Day. Cello covers of popular songs are such a unique choice for wedding cocktail hour music, don’t you agree? Subscribe to the Sarlas Music YouTube Channel for the best instrumental cello covers and cello covers of popular songs playlist. We’re adding new jazz standards and improvisation music every Tuesday!