Live music has the power to elevate any event to a memorable experience. If you’re considering hiring a band for your special occasion, understanding the average costs to hire a band by type will help you plan your budget effectively. In this guide, Encore Musicians will explore the average cost of hiring a band for various occasions, from weddings and parties to types of bands such as jazz bands, mariachi bands, and more.
The Average Cost to Hire a Band, by Type
1. Wedding Bands:
- Wedding bands vary widely in terms of size, experience, and popularity.
- On average you can expect to pay between £1025 – £2,500+.
- Factors influencing the cost include the band’s reputation, the number of musicians, and the duration of their performance.
Encore’s recommendations
Having played at some of the finest venues in the UK, The Alleycatz has become one of London’s premier function bands and has played over 500 performances since their formation in 2014.
From the Sicilian City of Palermo, Italy, Stallions & The Bear are one of the UK’s most vibrant and popular wedding and event bands.
I Love Amp are an incredible 4 piece party band who have played over 650 gigs and won several awards including Lux Life – Best Wedding Band UK in 2021, 2022 and 2023.
2. Party Bands
- Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a corporate event, party bands bring the energy.
- Prices typically range from £1,010 – £2,500+ depending on the band’s popularity, location, and the length of their set.
Encore’s recommendations
With over 15 years of live performance experience in a variety of London and UK venues, the band The Burning Shoes is a dynamic, sophisticated, and entertaining group of seasoned musicians.
Featuring some of the best professional session musicians in the nation, lead vocalist and musical director Wendy offers top-notch live music for any kind of event. She can customise the line-up and play a variety of genres.
Some of the best musicians in London gathered together to form MK & the Misters, the best party band in the UK, and go on a musical journey. This four to ten-piece band can provide an amazing musical experience for any occasion, having performed all over the world and with years of expertise.
3. Mariachi Bands
- Mariachi bands infuse an event with vibrant, traditional Mexican music.
- Hiring a Mariachi band can cost anywhere from £643 – £2,500, with variations based on the number of musicians, location, and the duration of the performance.
Encore’s recommendations
A roaming Mariachi band, Beato Burrito plays amongst your guests and performs rock and pop classics from Britney to Oasis, Kylie to Quo, all in a fun Mexican mariachi style. They’ve performed nationwide at weddings, corporate events, military balls, and awards ceremonies and have previously played at comedian Jack Whitehall’s home and ITN newscaster Romilly Weeks’s birthday party.
A more traditional choice, Mariachi Amigo’s repertoire includes traditional and popular Mariachi music which emphasises Rancheras, Boleros, Sones, Huapangos, Polkas, and even popular English songs.
Hailing from Mexico, Cuba, Colombia, Italy and the UK, this unique 7 piece, all-female mariachi band was formed in 2013 out of the desire to shatter stereotypes within this genre.
4. Tribute Bands:
- Tribute bands, dedicated to emulating the sounds of famous artists, generally charge between £546 – £3,000.
- The cost depends on the popularity of the original artist and the tribute band’s reputation for accuracy.
Encore’s recommendations
Beatles 4ever UK is a theatre-style cast show featuring some of the top Beatles lookalike and soundalike musicians in the UK.
Voted as the UKs TOP ABBA tribute, ABBA Be-jörn is one of the most exciting and authentic-sounding ABBA tribute acts that you’re likely to see. You must get ready for an incredible concert because not only do the accents sound authentic, but the designer clothing, flawless harmonies, and impressive stage presence are all included.
5. Jazz Bands:
- Jazz ensembles offer sophistication and versatility.
- Prices for jazz bands typically range from £546 – £1,500, influenced by the number of musicians, experience, and location.
- High-demand jazz bands may command higher fees.
Encore’s recommendations
A group of skilled jazz musicians with more than 20 years of combined experience performing live jazz for a variety of events is called Neon Blue. Numerous members received training at the Royal Academy and Guildhall Conservatoire before joining some of the top jazz ensembles in the UK.
The Ben Harker Trio performs lively versions of traditional jazz music as well as original compositions. This talented group of musicians, comprised of graduates of the prestigious Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, has performed at many major venues across the UK and Europe, including jazz clubs and festivals such as the London Jazz Festival, Brecon Jazz Festival, Langnau Jazz Nights Switzerland, The 606 Club London, and countless others.
Nouveau Lounge, inspired by the American band Post Modern Jukebox, debuted in the UK in late 2016 with their own distinctive interpretations of modern pop songs.
They’ve also played at prestigious venues such as The Marylebone Hotel London, One Belgravia, Royal Ascot, Hilton Hotels, Syon House, Park Plaza Hotel, Cosy Club, Waddesdon Manor, and many more.
6. Ceilidh Bands:
- For those seeking a lively, traditional Celtic experience, ceilidh bands are a popular choice.
- The average cost falls between £862 – £2,000, with variations based on the size of the band and the event location.
Encore’s recommendations
Triple Scotch has provided entertainment for many top companies, political parties, universities, big charity fundraisers, and, of course, weddings. The band is familiar to dealing with seasoned dancers, first-time ceilidh-goers, and everyone in between, so they are the appropriate choice for your event regardless of your past ceilidh experience.
Together The Jacobites have a combined 30 years of expertise in the Scottish music industry. They’ve performed at weddings, concerts, and events all around Scotland, the United Kingdom, and Europe.
7. Roaming Bands:
- Roaming bands, known for their interactive performances, may charge between £800 – £1,800.
- The cost can depend on factors such as the size of the band, the duration of the event, and any additional services provided.
Encore’s recommendations
The Ukes of Hazzard are a lively and dynamic roaming band that plays a wide variety of songs, allowing them to adjust their shows to the precise needs of your event. They are also as capable of giving brilliant fun in their various-sized formations and solo ukes, so there is an option for every budget, and they will occasionally pick up guitars, banjos, mandolins, and other instruments to mix things up.
The Gallivants offer an excellent mix of soul/motown, rock n’ roll, and other well-known songs, as well as some recent pop numbers to sing along to. The band is dedicated to ensuring that your live entertainment is as fantastic as possible, with a versatile repertoire and expert ability to read a room.
8. Soul and Motown Bands:
- Bands specializing in soul and Motown classics typically charge between £1,250 – £3,000.
- The cost may vary based on the band’s popularity, experience, and the duration of their set.
Encore’s recommendations
Formed in 2012, the band’s distinctive blend of Soul, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Rock, and Blues fills the dance floor with participatory performances, stunning harmonies, sophisticated choreography, and great musicianship.
Formed in 2012, the band’s distinctive blend of Soul, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Rock, and Blues fills the dance floor with participatory performances, stunning harmonies, sophisticated choreography, and great musicianship.
9. Folk Bands
- Folk bands, known for their acoustic and traditional sounds, typically charge between £600 – £2,500.
- The cost can vary based on the band’s popularity, experience, and the duration of their performance.
Encore’s recommendations
Mitchell and Vincent are an acoustic duet from the Westcountry, combining traditional and contemporary fiddle and guitar techniques to folk melodies and songs from around the British Isles, using different arrangements to tell stories with tunes as well as songs.
Daisy Chute Band’s folk/americana/jazz songs have sold out venues and festivals all over the UK and US, including but not limited to Glastonbury, Latitude, and Sofar Sounds.
The Worried Men of Gower are an extremely flexible folk band from Swansea who live and work on and around the Gower. They can play as a duo, a trio, or larger group depending on what you need. Their repertoire is varied, covering jazz, rock, and pop, as well as traditional folk music and beloved drinking songs from around the British Isles.
10. Oompah Bands
- Oompah bands, with their lively and festive German-inspired music, generally charge between £641 – £1,725.
- The cost may vary depending on the size of the band, their reputation, and the duration of the performance.
Encore’s recommendations
Deutsch Blasmusik is a modern take on the traditional Oompah band! They specialise in imaginative and endearing blends of traditional German and odd pop classics.
This seasoned oompah band covers polkas, waltzes, Beyoncé, and Barbie girl with their distinctive and fun-filled approach to oompop! They engage the audience with games and songs, such as a yodelling contest, traditional Munich dance performed while seated at tables, and plenty of drinking games (if you wish!).
The Bierkeller Boys provide excellent Oompah Music and Entertainment for any event. Perfect for gatherings, parties, wedding receptions, corporate events and of course beer festivals, Bierkellers & Oktoberfest! The band will customise their performance to keep your guests entertained with party activities and great Bavarian Oompah music.
How to save money when booking a band
- Plan Early
In order to secure the musician of your choice, you should plan well in advance. Popular bands are often very busy and you will have access to a wider range of options, including those that may offer early bird discounts.
Hiring a band last minute can lead to rash decisions and increase costs. Bands may charge a premium for last-minute bookings. By planning ahead of time, you can minimise the stress and costs of last-minute arrangements.
- Book local musicians
There are several benefits to booking local musicians. You’ll save money on travel expenses – paying a band to travel 200 miles round trip to your wedding is not cheap! Furthermore, the musicians might be familiar with your venue, so they will understand how to work the space and maximise the acoustics.
As an added bonus, the band will be fresher and more energetic after a shorter commute and the likelihood of them being delayed by traffic or a late train is substantially decreased.
- Book a multi-talented band
Look for a band with singers who also play instruments. A three-piece band consisting of a singing guitarist, a singing bassist, and a drummer, for example, will sound nearly equivalent to a five-piece band consisting of two singers, a guitarist, a bassist, and a drummer.
Despite having a similar sound, the 3-piece band will cost, on average, 40% less than the 5-piece band.
- Off-Peak Days:
On weekdays and Sundays, bands are often more available and during the holiday season especially, their calendars might quickly fill up, making it difficult to book your favourite bands on weekends. By selecting an off-peak day, you boost your chances of hiring the desired band at a lesser rate.
Conclusion
When planning your event, understanding the average costs associated with different types of bands can help you make informed decisions that align with your vision and finances. Hopefully, this guide has given you a comprehensive overview of the average cost to hire a band in the UK.
Remember to communicate openly with potential bands about your requirements and expectations to ensure a harmonious collaboration that creates lasting memories for you and your guests.
Ready to book? Browse through Encore’s varied collection of professional live bands here.