About the C.O.T. Band

How everything started...

The C.O.T. Band is a latin band based in the Atlanta area. We play a mix of salsa, merengue, funk, bachata, caribbean rhythms, jazz, rumba, trova cubana and brazilian beats with our own twist.

In 2010 Willie Ziavino formed the C.O.T. Band along with Juan Bonini (Panamá) resulting in the fusion of trova, jazz, caribbean / brazilian rhythms and musical influences from each band member. This world music style blends perfectly with the melting pot that is Atlanta.

The band quickly became very well known in Atlanta's latin music scenary performing weekly for the last 14 years in the best latin venues in the city.

The C.O.T. Band was invited in 2014 to the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Atlanta Jazz Festival and Chattanooga Riverbend Festival.

They have also performed for Coca Cola, High Museum of Art, Georgia State, National Society of Hispanic MBAs, Hispanic National Bar Association among others. C.O.T. Band has also been invited to several Southeast music festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

expand_more What does C.O.T. mean?

C.O.T. means Circle Of Trust. Back in 2010, our band started performing at a venue with a small stage, in order all of us could see each other and connect better was to form a circle. After a while playing on bigger stages we started making a semi-circle and we like to say that the other half of the circle is completed by the audience.

expand_more What type of music do you play?

We play a wide variety of latin rhythms like salsa, merengue, cumbia, timba, bachata, ballenato, reggaeton, bolero, rumba, samba, samba reggae, bossa nova. Also we like to make some fussion with funk, disco and blues. We do play covers, but also play originals, you can check our live videos.

expand_more What musical instruments do you play?

This depends on the band size you select for your event. Regularly our band setup includes classic Guitar, electric Guitar, Drums, Percussion, Trombone, Trumpet, Piano, Bass. Additionally we sometimes add more percussion and brass instruments.

expand_more Do you offer the same concept of music but fewer musicians as this is a very small space?

Of course!, we can bring a 3 or 4 piece band for small stages, it includes classic guitar, percussion, keyboard, bass. Just let us know your preference.

expand_more We have a mixed audience and some of them don't dance salsa, can you help us?

That's our specialty!. Our repertoire not only includes salsa for very skilled dancers but also easy rhythm songs that anyone can dance. Additionally we can bring our DJ so we can mix live current hits with latin music. Everyone will be on the dance floor. You'll love it.

expand_more It's my wedding, can the band play the ceremony and cocktail hour?

Of course!. Just let us know what you have in mind and we'll take care of everything. We can have a solo guitar or piano section for your ceremony, a trio for your cocktail hour (some jazz maybe?), and the full band for the dancing sets on your reception party. Contact us for more specific details and requests.

expand_more It's my wedding, can the band DJ during their breaks or dinner?

Absolutely! Just send us your favorite song list and we'll include it in our breaks or dinner. Or just let us handle the music for you, keep in mind that our goal is for you to relax and be sure everything is taking care of.

expand_more Can you MC my event?

Yes, of course! Please give us your agenda at least 2 weeks before your event. We'll go through any details with you.

expand_more Can you bring a dance instructor to my party?

Of course! We have our salsa instructor, he can lead your guests to salsa dance, it's so much fun.

expand_more Can you add a dance performance to your show?

Absolutely! Just let us know how many dancers you need, outfit, etc. Please give us a call for more details.

expand_more Do I need a PA/Sound system, can the band provide it?

The PA (Public Address) system projects sounds from instruments voices and acoustic sources to your audience. Choosing the right PA system is a key factor for the success of your event. If your venue offers PA/Sound system make sure is designed for live music, otherwise you can just let us take care of it. Please let us know how many guests you are expecting approximately so we can bring the perfect equipment for your event.

expand_more Can we use your sound equipment for speeches?

Yes! We can provide you with a wireless mic for your speaker. There's no need to have a second set up.

expand_more Do you need any tech set up on our side?

If you need us to bring our PA/Sound system, we'll need at least (3) separate 120-Volt AC circuits on separate circuit breakers of no less than 20 amps each (These are standard residential receptacles)

expand_more What size stage do I need for the band to fit?

We certainly don't require a stage to perform; but, if you choose to have one, we'd prefer a stage size of 12'x24'.

expand_more Do you have a tech-rider?

You can download our technical rider from our web site. For more details please give us a call.

expand_more Can we make a walk through with the band?

Of course, actually it is part of our preparation for the event. We'll scheduled a walk through with your event planner.

expand_more Can the band play outside?

If the stage is outside we'll need a tent to protect the instruments. We require cover and a flat, hard, dry surface to play on. Also, water and heat can damage instruments, so please keep this in mind when placing the band. We always recommend to have a backup plan just in case!

expand_more Do you require beverages on stage, meals, a green room or any additional spaces/set up?

Yes, please, a meal for our team members will be appreciated. We'll also need a case of cold bottle spring water on stage. We do not require a green room, but if you choose to have one for us we'll appreciate it A LOT!

expand_more Federal work authorization program

Ziavino Entertainment, Inc is registered and participating in the Federal Work Authorization Program (E-Verify) to verify specific information on all our new employees.

expand_more Are you in compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91?

We certify that our corporation is in compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 and any related and applicable Georgia Department of Labor Rule.

expand_more Do you have insurance?

Yes, we do. Let us know if you need a Certificate of Liability Insurance. We'll be happy to assist you on any type of documents required for your event.

expand_more Do you travel?

We mainly cover events in Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina and Florida, but we can go anywhere you want us to play. Traveling and accommodation expenses would be included in our quote based on your location. Contact us so we can give you more details.

expand_more Can you add "LA HORA LOCA" (the crazy hour) to my party?

Yes, we sure can arrange it for you!. Imagine the lights have dimmed and then suddenly sirens, confetti, lights, beautiful feathered dancers, performers and drummers fill the room to get the party re-ignited. Hats, feathered boas, light sticks and noisemakers are distributed to ensure your guests party in style. If you are interested please give us a call for more details.

expand_more I'm still organizing my event, do you have a preferred vendor list?

We work with different vendors as professional event planners, floral designers, caterers, photographers, hookah party rentals, etc. Give us a call for more details.