So, you’re looking for a function band to perform at your event? Great choice! Your guests are in for a treat. Now… what are you going to do with that function band? What function do you want them to serve? In this guide, we’ll be covering the most common function band performance types that our customers book.
1. Headline performance
This is by far the most popular type of performance for classic pop/rock function bands. The performance will typically be split into 45-minute sets, separated by breaks of around 15-20 minutes, and most bands will provide two or three of these sets.
This sort of performance works extremely well for the evening party at a wedding, or the main entertainment after a dinner or awards ceremony.
We recommend having a band with a singer to capture your guests’ attention, but this isn’t always necessary. For example, some of our brass bands are loud and rowdy, making it impossible for your guests not to have a good time!
Here’s an example of a brilliant headline performance by Encore Party Band, The Edge:
2. Background music
Background music is much more common with instrumental function bands e.g. bands without a vocalist. It’s absolutely possible to have a band with a singer providing background music, but it’s simply not as common.
Jazz function bands will typically perform background music. The beauty of a jazz band is its versatility. They can perform background music during dinner, then a headline performance afterwards by adding a singer.
Curious about hiring a jazz band? Check out our full Jazz Band Booking Guide, or learn more about how much it costs to hire a jazz band.
3. Roaming set
Roaming bands are becoming increasingly popular at private events, weddings and corporate events, and for good reason. Perfect for outdoor events, or events taking place in large buildings with guests spread across various rooms and gardens. Roaming function bands are extremely entertaining, and will often interact with your guests.
Remember this is only possible with an acoustic act, so the sound will be slightly quieter.
We’ve included some photos and videos and below to give you some inspiration. All of the bands below are available to hire through Encore, which offers some of the best roaming bands in the UK.
Meet the Busking Bellas:
Wandering Soul, a fully mobile roaming band, have a fantastic selection of photos showing just how versatile they can be:
Looking for more advice on booking a function band?
We’re confident you’ll find the following guides helpful: