What do function bands do?
Function bands in British English perform live music at events, engaging audiences with diverse songs from various genres. They tailor their sets to fit specific occasions, encouraging guests to dance and participate.
Function bands create memorable experiences by interacting with the crowd, offering customisation options, and ensuring a lively atmosphere. From weddings to corporate events, function bands enhance events with their musical expertise, making them popular choices for entertainment.
How many people are in a function band?
Most groups have a minimum of three members, and it increases from there. Most function bands are willing to adjust their size to fit your budget.
What styles of music can a function band play?
Function bands can perform various genres, including pop, rock, R&B, soul, funk, jazz, and even classical music. Their versatility allows them to cater to different audiences. From classic hits to contemporary chart-toppers, function bands tailor their repertoire to suit the crowd, making them a popular choice for most events.
Do function bands take requests?
Function bands will know a lot of songs, and if they don't know yours, they can learn it. Your booking may incur an extra fee as a result, but it will be well worth it to hear your favourite music played exclusively for you.
A function band are able to gauge which songs will get people on the dance floor and which songs will change the mood, so give them your best music and let them give you a live performance that will keep the dancefloor filled.
How long do function bands play for?
Typically, function bands are hired for two one-hour sets or three 40-minute sets, with breaks of 15 to 30 minutes in between. As such, we advise to not look at hiring a function band during a wedding meal (if booking for a wedding).
It's important to note, that your function band will also require around one hour for setup and soundcheck.
Do I have to pay for the band's travel?
With Encore, all fees (travel, VAT, and other expenses a musician may need) are included in the quote, making booking a function band simple.
The only additional add-on fee is the optional Encore Cover package we offer which means on top of your Basic Protection (full refund in the unlikely event of a musician cancellation), you will also get a tailored replacement search, out-of-hours support, and if the replacement act is more expensive than the original musician booked, we’ll cover the cost. As such, you can have complete peace of mind you will have the perfect entertainment for you event.
As with all musicians, the closer they are to your chosen venue, the lower the fees will be thus we always advise to consider local bands first.
Do bands need insurance?
All professional function bands should have PLI, and your venue may need it.
PLI, or third-party insurance, is short for Public Liability Insurance. PLI insures damage to another person or their property that occurs during your event, for as if a guest trips over the band's amplifier.
It's easy to find and book bands with PLI on Encore, as all our bands with PLI will be marked with a badge on their profile.
Will the function band provide all their own equipment?
Yes—most function bands will be fully equipped with their own PA system, music gear, and usually even lighting! Many will also provide a sound assistant, as well as a DJ service. A DJ service will keep the music going while the band take short breaks, but is also perfect add-on if you and your guests want to boogie into the far-reaches of the night!
What is the difference between headline, background and roaming function bands?
Headline, background, and roaming function bands differ in their performance styles and roles at events:
- Headline Function Bands: These bands are the main act of the event, often playing on stage. Headline bands play energetic sets, engage the crowd, and are typically hired for the event's main entertainment. They have a fixed stage setup and perform live music, catering to the audience's musical preferences.
- Background Function Bands: Background bands play softer, ambient music during events. They provide a pleasant musical backdrop for occasions like cocktail parties, dinners, or corporate receptions. The music is usually at a lower volume, allowing guests to converse comfortably while enjoying live music. Background bands create a sophisticated atmosphere without being the primary focus of the event.
- Roaming Function Bands: Roaming bands move among the audience, interacting directly with guests. They are mobile and can perform both acoustic and amplified sets. Roaming bands increase guest engagement by performing up close and personal, often prompting sing-alongs and spontaneous dancing. They deliver entertainment to the audience, delivering an immersive experience.
Each style of function band, serves a distinct purpose, allowing event organisers to select the best option based on the ambience and entertainment requirements of the event. If unsure, get in touch with the experts at Encore Musicians who can help you find the perfect band for your event.
What kind of performance should I expect from a function band?
Good question! There are essentially three types of function band performances: headline, background, and roaming. Headline bands are the most common; perfect for filling the dancefloor and getting the crowd moving. Background function bands are usually jazz bands—they can provide a great ambience for whatever event you might have in mind. Roaming bands are great for outdoor weddings or events where you want the band to get around to all the guests and provide a bit of audience interaction. Roaming bands are only possible as an acoustic act, so they come cord-free!
