Joan Zen Reviews
Reviews
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Awards
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![Gaea]()
Gaea Sent on 06/17/2026Great band well worth the money!
Joan Zen is a delight to work with and they knocked it out of the park when it came to performing for our wedding. This is the band to hire if you want to make sure people come out to dance. The memories of dancing with so much joy with my friends and family to their music are priceless and I couldn’t recommend hiring Joan Zen for your wedding more. -
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Laura Sent on 06/10/2026
More than a Band
Joan Zen was the perfect band for our son and daughter-in-law‘s wedding! They went above and beyond the entire time we were planning to make sure they communicated well and helped us edit songs and make great suggestions along the way. While many wedding vendors expect you to fit in their box. Deb went above and beyond to try to say yes to all of our requests and was so supportive and kind. She not only helped us with music but also was just very supportive. They are flexible and able to adjust when needed. Deb‘s voice is amazing and added so much to the dance party! They were amazing at getting everyone on the dance floor and encouraging everyone to have a great evening. We loved having them and would highly recommend them to anyone considering them for their wedding band.Joan Zen's reply:
Thank you for the lovely review. You’re a gem! Not only was the event a huge success, it was a pleasure to work with someone both invested in it and skilled in planning! How many more kids are in the group to be married? We’re here for it all. Best to you! -
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![Hanna]()
Hanna Sent on 10/10/2025Best band ever!
This is the best band for your event/party/wedding.....really any time you need the dance floor to be full! Our organization hires Joan Zen to play at our community events every year and they are always an absolute hit. They are perfect for getting people up and dancing and create the festive vibe we are looking for for our events. Deb has an absolutely amazing voice and has a presence that makes people stop and watch/listen, on top of being such a wonderful person. Hiring Joan Zen for your wedding, or any party/celebration/event, is the best choice you could make!Joan Zen's reply:
Thank you so much for this! Missoula Downtown Association has always been a huge part of our year! Thanks for all you do for our community!! -
![Trinity]()
Trinity Sent on 08/28/2025Joan Zen Wedding Performance
We have been following Joan Zen for years and they have always been our favorite local band so it was incredibly special for them to play at our wedding. Not only do they know how to keep the party going with all their classic tunes and Joan’s killer voice but they are incredibly lovely people to work with and have the positive energy you want for your big day. 10/10 recommend.Joan Zen's reply:
Thank you for the review! It was such a grand affair. From the charming location to the incredible home cooked Mexican food to the dance party, we enjoyed it all! We hope to see you in Missoula again soon! -
![Gray]()
Gray Sent on 07/28/2025Best wedding band ever!!
After seeing Joan Zen play in Missoula a few times, I knew that they had to be my wedding band! From the first time we spoke, Joan made sure beach request I had was executed and even offered time to chat about all things wedding stress, not just the music. She went out of her way to make sure our cocktail hour and reception were flawless.
To the reception - the band learned a few songs not in their repertoire and they were beautifully done. Their performance was electric… we had numerous guests tell us that they’re the best wedding band they’ve ever seen! (Of course we agree!) Joan Zen is different, funky, bluesy, soul-y — you really can’t describe what all they can do! And they put on the best dang encore.
I highly recommend booking Joan Zen!!! I want to have another wedding just so I can book them again haha. THANK YOU JZ!!!!Joan Zen's reply:
It was an incredible day! You are a gorgeous couple! Thank you for choosing US! We had a ball. You and the team you assembled rocked the whole event! -
![Thomas]()
Thomas Sent on 07/25/2025Summer lake party
The entire process was top notch. They were easy to contact, very professional to interact with and supremely talented musicians. Joan Zen is a fantastic entertainer and singer with an amazing voice. She and the entire band play their hearts out for the audience. Our 200 guests were amazed at her talent and her voice as well as the musical abilities of her 5 band members. It was a perfect choice for our event.Joan Zen's reply:
So happy to read your review! It was truly spectacular setting, crowd of wonderful people, and we enjoyed every second. Thanks for treating us to a home town show! -
Kylie Sent on 06/23/2025
Best wedding band EVER!
Joan Zen performed at our wedding and absolutely knocked it out of the park. We had guests coming up to us all night saying it was the best live music they’d ever heard at a wedding. Not only are they incredibly talented—Joan’s voice is a total powerhouse—but they were also super professional and helpful in the lead-up to the big day. They provided mics for the ceremony, played beautiful live jazz during cocktail hour, and threw down an epic dance party for the reception. Joan had a perfect read on the energy all night, and we couldn’t be happier we went with her. Can’t recommend them enough. -
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![Abigail]()
Abigail Sent on 11/16/2024They ROCKED it- truly the best night of my life!
Before Joan played our wedding I knew she was an amazing musician, but what I found out through our planning process is that she is amazing in every possible way: kind, organized, flexible and FUN. Joan Zen and her band are absolutely incredible, in case you don't read the rest of this I want to say up front: BOOK THEM NOW!
I have spent many unforgettable nights dancing to Joan Zen at the Union... along with a few nights where the details are a little fuzzy ;) Even before I met my now husband I always said I wanted to her to play at my wedding, and when we finally had a potential date I reached out to Joan right after my immediate family to see if she was available. My husband is not from Missoula and didn't know about Joan but luckily we had the chance to see her live together a few months before our wedding and after that one show he was completely sold. In our first emails and for our entire wedding planning period Joan responded quickly and professionally, and was helpful in ways that went way beyond the music. She gave us advice on the schedule of events, provided helpful reassurance and made an effort to get to know our "vibe." She either knew or was willing to learn all of the songs we requested, which ranged from 90s love songs to funk to oldies and more. She had played our venue (Snow Bowl) a number of times and is familiar with most wedding venues around Missoula so we didn't have to worry about any of the tech and A/V details. She is an insanely talented and versatile musician and brings her signature sound to both covers and original music. On our big day she and her band were there well ahead of time and set up before any guests arrived. We had discussed an approximate schedule and did our best to stick with it but they flowed with the timeline as it unfolded, they were completely flexible for anytime we wanted to take a break in the music for an announcement or cake etc. But from the first to last soulful notes they played the dance floor with PACKED. There was a lot to celebrate that night but I can't tell you how many times the out-of-town guests asked me who she was and if she toured/where else they could see her. We are so lucky to have these talented musicians in the Missoula community!Joan Zen's reply:
Oh, Biga and Greg, what a beautiful review. I’m so grateful we were able to fulfill your vision of your musical day with the perfect touch. It was a truly amazing party! Your family and friends were so kind, generous, and FUN to entertain. Thank you again for having us! Come see us again at the union and we’ll celebrate every time! -
The R. Sent on 10/28/2024
We will remember the 21st night of September
Joan Zen Band was everything we could have hoped for at our wedding! We’ve loved them for years, catching them at other venues, but having them play on such a special day was beyond perfect. They absolutely fit the vibe of the celebration, playing every song we requested and even learning two songs that were deeply meaningful to us for key moments. Their energy, talent, and soul filled the space with so much joy, and it was incredible to have them perform surrounded by our friends and family from near and far. They truly made the night unforgettable. If you’re looking for a band that will not only fit your event but elevate it, Joan Zen is the one!
Joan Zen's reply:
It was a magical evening for us as well! Your intention, love, inclusivity, and energy made it the elevated event in every way! And you broke the mold of the conventional wedding with so many details that made things special. Thank you so much for having us!! -
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![Ashley]()
Ashley Sent on 10/27/2024JZ for the win!
Look no further! This band is incredible and their energy is electric! They played for hours at our wedding and had everyone on the dance floor! JZ responded so quickly when I reached out. She has such a positive energy, is great to communicate with and is super chill. Just an awesome lady and you will be blown away by her vocals. Also, my husband went to school with Milan (on keyboards), so it was super special to have them play for our wedding!! Five Stars!Joan Zen's reply:
You are both so kind and thoughtful to write a review! Yours was the kind of celebration you wish could go on all night. The most lovely couple ever. Wishing you both the very best. Thank you so much for the glowing review! -
![Genevieve]()
Genevieve Sent on 08/29/2024Best dance party, amazing voice, and so easy to work with! We love Joan Zen!!
Joan Zen played our annual Farm Party, a fundraiser and friendraiser for Garden City Harvest here in Missoula, Montana. The band is a group of dedicated professionals with talent and passion. They bring a just the right mix of their own original tunes and covers that were both classic and fresh. The combo got everyone on the dance floor. At our event, the tent was full of people of all ages and dance abilities moving and grooving and feeling an amazing togetherness. The band came highly recommended - I heard that you had to get to the Union Club, a popular local dance spot, early just to get a square of dance space the nights they played. And they did not disappoint. Additionally, working with them was seamless -- so easy to coordinate the many details that go into planning a large event. Our sound engineer was thrilled, too, because they are so organized, friendly, and generally fantastic humans to be around. We would work with them again in a New York minute.Joan Zen's reply:
Despite the rain, the event was flawless. Great food! Fun atmosphere, a really wonderful time! Thanks for having us! -
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![Leah]()
Leah Sent on 07/11/2024Magical Day!
We changed our wedding date so we could have Joan Zen Band there. She added so much to our special day. The band learned a song for our first dance and nailed the sax solo. We heard from all our guests about how much they added to the experience and even had guests invite them to play in Alaska. We would 100% recommend them.Joan Zen's reply:
Thanks for making it all so easy for us to serenade you! Your first dance song was perfect, and one of our favorites from the 80’s. It was a pleasure to meet all your family and friends! -
![Carly]()
Carly Sent on 08/06/2023Joan Zen was a true gift to our wedding!!
We were able to book Joan Zen for piano music during the appetizers and cocktail hour, for special songs to lead into our ceremony and a full band for after dinner dancing. The musical quality of Joan Zen is top tier as is the quality of the humans who make up the band. It was such a honor to have them build the musical backbone of our special day. Thank you all!!Joan Zen's reply:
It was a truly magical day. Thank you so much for including us. We wish you all the love in the world! -
![Jackie]()
Jackie Sent on 11/16/2022The PERFECT wedding band!
Joan Zen rocks! They are such a talented group of people and were such a highlight of our wedding. Guests are still talking about how great they were months after the wedding! They were great to work with and very knowledgable about logistics. They made it an easy process and they're all just wonderful people who know how to play some good music!Joan Zen's reply:
Thank you so much for the review! We hope you are both loving life after that awesome wedding! Congrats and thanks for having us play!! -
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Betty Sent on 11/08/2022
Joan Zen rocked it. Highly recommend
From the time they started playing to the end of the night, the dance floor was packed! So much energy and fun. Everyone loved them.
They also played during the ceremony which was magical. If you are considering Joan Zen for your wedding or event, they’re worth every penny.Joan Zen's reply:
What a magical day! The rain turning to snow right with the kiss I DO, was over the top romantic! Can’t wait to see the pictures of it. Thanks for choosing Landslide….one of my all time favorites. -
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![Nicole]()
Nicole Sent on 09/07/2022Joan Zen brought the party
I can not be more grateful for Joan Zen. Her band was able to deliver above and beyond what we expected. Not only were they able to learn all of our requested ceremony and reception songs, they performed the songs with brilliance and timed them so perfectly that it made our wedding a dream both to be part of and to watch. Numerous guests have remarked how good the music and dancing was (and we had a serious dance party!). The live piano ceremony music and procession was my favorite part of the entire wedding. Unfortunately, it began to rain as our ceremony was supposed to begin and Joan Zen was flexible enough to quickly mobilize to play cocktail music under the tent as the rain passed. As soon as we could perform the ceremony, the band began our processional song 'Here Comes the Sun' just as the sun peaked above the dark clouds. The band was so in tune with the mood, the moment and the feel of the ceremony that it made, as many guests have said, the wedding appear like a movie playing out in front of them. THANK YOU so much for helping make our wedding the party of the decade : )Joan Zen's reply:
It was like a movie! So romantic and New York New York bringing the crowd to their feet when you exited the auto for the procession! Magical! Thanks for having us be there! -
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![Kristen]()
Kristen Sent on 07/13/2022Always a crowd favorite!
Our organization has hired Joan Zen to play at our community event every year for many, many years and they are always an absolute hit. They are perfect for getting people up and dancing and create the festive vibe we are looking for for our events. Deb is has an absolutely amazing voice and has a presence that makes people stop and watch/listen. Hiring Joan Zen for your wedding, or any party/celebration/event, is the best choice you could make!Joan Zen's reply:
We just love each and every gig at the park! Thanks so much for having us back every year! We value it greatly! -
![Mary]()
Mary Sent on 07/12/2022Joan Zen - Just absolutely amazing!
Joan Zen was incredible to work with from the start. She not only has the most incredible voice but is also just an amazing human. She even helped us (as first and hopefully only wedding planners) with suggestions for timelines and tips on the ceremony. The way they played the song that she learned for our first dance was even better than the original! So many personal touches and so much ease in planning working with the band and they kept the dancing going all night! The dance floor was never empty once they started playing and we have had so many compliments from our guests. We could not have chosen a better band for our wedding (especially in the Bitterroot)!Joan Zen's reply:
Thank you so much for the review. That was one of the most romantic and celebratory weddings I’ve played. Y’all are like family now! -
![Jon]()
Jon P. Sent on 01/25/2021Outstanding band! They know how to get the crowd going and keep them there all night long!
I have been hiring Joan Zen for 4 plus years and they are our top band. Our establishment meets full capacity every time they play. I give them the top spot every month they play here. Highly recommend them for your wedding needs!Joan Zen's reply:
Thanks, Jon, and how we miss playing at our favorite club in Montana! Can’t wait to get back to it. Hope y’all are hanging in there. -
Kathy Sent on 01/25/2021
Such GREAT energy and presence!
Professional and SO talented! Understood their role and our needs perfectly.Joan Zen's reply:
Thanks, Kathy. It’s always an honor to be involved in the important work being done by our favorite Montana non profits and charities. Thanks for reviewing us! -
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Amanda Sent on 05/27/2019
Amazing choice!
Joan Zen was amazing for our reception! All of our guests danced the night away and had a fabulous time thanks to these guys. They were responsive and helpful and such a good fit for us. Also, they were flexible in singing our first dance songs and did an amazing job! We are so glad we chose a live band for our reception and Joan Zen was perfect. Thank you so much for making our big day even more special and for giving me the peace of mind that the dancing and music were covered! I cannot say enough good things about this band! Thank you!!!Joan Zen's reply:
Thanks for the great review! So happy you are happy! We wish you both the best and look forward to seeing you again! -
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Jessie Sent on 03/30/2019
Made the night!
Choosing the Joan Zen Band as the providers of the soundtrack for our wedding was the best choice we could have made. They made the night. We came away impressed by the breadth and depth of their ability, professionalism, positivity, and energy. From the beautiful classical guitar surrounding our ceremony, to the grooviest dance tunes that got everyone up and moving, to the perfect slow songs that gave us all a chance to dance closer, The Joan Zen Band brought it all. It's hard to know where to begin in detailing all of the extras that the band put into making our event special. Not only did the band learn to perfection a list of some of our favorite songs and played them at perfect moments, but they helped us (and a few of our conspiring guests) pull off some party shenanigans that really got everyone moving. After our first dance (another song we requested that they played exquisitely), they helped us get all of our guests in the dancing mood with an irresistibly funky version of the Hokey Pokey. We had asked them to do this, but they made it a success beyond what we had imagined. We were grinning from ear to ear watching all of our friends and family putting their left elbows in and shaking them all about. The Joan Zen band also helped some of our family pull off a flash mob dance. Unbeknownst to us (the bride and groom) our family contacted the band and requested that they a learn a specific song, a song to which they had choreographed a dance and then disseminated a video of the dance to the guests. We were shocked when everyone started dancing in unison when the song began! Even the band was in on it!
The Joan Zen Band had the crowd moving all night. They knew when to pump the crowd, they knew when to slow things down. They knew when to play a special song we'd requested in our list. They put their heart and soul into every moment of every song.
Since the wedding, we have heard innumerable compliments on the band from our friends and family. It's probably the thing we've heard the most. Everyone loved them. We too have commented countless times in our own reflections on just how grateful we are that we chose them. We cannot recommend them enough. They were kind, calm, easy-going, fun, and professional throughout the whole process.
Thanks Joan Zen Band for playing an important part in our special day!Joan Zen's reply:
What an awesome night! Thanks for letting us share it with you....it was a one-of-a-kind celebration! I'll never forget it! -
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Jen Sent on 03/11/2019
Phenomenal!
Joan Zen was phenomenal at our wedding! Everyone was on the dance floor the whole night. They were easy going and accommodating, and had a big band feel and sound. They totally rocked it!Joan Zen's reply:
Jen, thanks a bunch for the great review! What a fabulous venue and evening and a perfect day all around! Hope that your marriage is as fun and lovely as the wedding day! Best to you and the family! -
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Megan Sent on 08/29/2019
The best wedding band we could've asked for!
Joan Zen absolutely killed it at our outdoor wedding! Through working with us during the planning process, they delivered on everything we asked for. They had the sound system set up perfectly for the ceremony and played a more upbeat classical tune for walking down the aisle. For the first dance and father/daughter and mother/son dance, they covered three different songs by Beck and other artists that aren't usually covered, and they nailed it. They wowed our guests and ourselves the rest of the night with tunes that made everyone go nuts on the dance floor and hold nothing back, which is what my husband and I were aiming for. Without telling them to do so, the band matched the energy of the crowd and had everyone grooving. They really were a huge part in making our wedding so special.Joan Zen's reply:
It was such a great evening! Thank you for having us and for reviewing us! Wishing you both the best for marital bliss! Hope the honeymoon was a blast too! -
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