The Encore Blog
Inspiration, guides and tips for hiring musicians
Advice, guides and stories on hiring musicians and planning live music for weddings and events.
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Popular articles
How much do musicians cost? Ultimate Price Guide 2024
We've compiled the ultimate guide to live music costs, based on over 100,000 real quotes sent by musicians to Encore customers. This guide covers the cost of hiring over 30 different types of live musicians, including soloists, bands and even orchestras.
Hire An Orchestra Guide – 2024 Prices, Advice and FAQs
Booking an Orchestra for events can be a daunting prospect for both newbies and experienced event planners and music bookers. This booking guide will take you through everything you need to know to hire an orchestra for your event - including how much an orchestra should cost!
Singer Booking Guide – 2024 Prices, Advice and FAQs
Hiring a singer is a great way to add some style to your event. This guide covers everything you need to know about booking a singer.
Bagpiper Booking Guide – 2025 Prices, Advice and FAQs
Hiring a bagpiper is a great way to add some tradition to your event. Our guide covers everything you need to know about booking a bagpiper for your event.
Mariachi Band Booking Guide – 2024 Prices, Advice and FAQs
Planning to book a mariachi band? This guide provides you with all the information you need to know about hiring a mariachi band.
String Quartet Booking Guide – 2024 Prices, Advice and FAQs
Hiring a string quartet is a great way to add style to your event. This guide covers everything you need to know about booking a quartet for your event.
Latest articles
How to Choose the Right Musician for Your Christmas Celebration
Choosing the right musician for your Christmas celebration is key to an unforgettable event - read our guide on how to choose your musician
Why Duos Work Brilliantly for Christmas Events
When planning a Christmas event, live duos are one of the most versatile and underrated choices for festive entertainment. Whether it’s an office party, drinks reception or festive dinner, a well-chosen duo can deliver all the atmosphere, energy and charm you need, without the hassle or cost of a…
Do I Need a Music Licence for My Event?
Planning live or recorded music? Check if your event needs a UK music licence, what exceptions apply, and how to get a music license
Live Music Ideas for Your 2026 Christmas Party
If you’re planning a Christmas party for 2025 – whether it’s a corporate event, a team night out, or a private celebration – live music is one of the best ways to create energy, atmosphere, and moments people won’t forget. Forget Spotify playlists in the background; the right live act brings…
Ultimate Guide to Booking Christmas Party Entertainment
Looking for Christmas party entertainment? This guide covers ideas, costs, timelines and booking tips so you can lock in great acts fast
How to Choose the Right Setlist for Your Wedding Reception
Music is one of the most powerful parts of any wedding reception. It brings people together, sets the tone, and helps shape the mood of the evening. A well-chosen setlist doesn’t just fill space between speeches – it creates moments, sparks memories and gets people dancing. But how do you choose a…