Wedding Bands for hire Near You
Latest reviews of our Wedding Bands
"Amazing band from start to finish! Even learnt our first dance and second dance song which was extra special. Everybody commented how great they were, nobody stopped dancing! 100% recommend. Thank you so much Gig Machine for making our wedding extra special"
Lauren hired Gig Machine for a Wedding
"The band were really easy to work and communicate with for our wedding. The music and performance was awesome, ourselves and our guests had a wonderful evening - the band created a great atmosphere for the night!"
Abigail hired Central Avenue Band for a Wedding
"The band was friendly and highly professional. They kept contact with us throughout the wedding planing process. We unfortunately had delays on the day, but the band were happy to accommodate us which we greatly appreciated. All of our guests commented on how much they enjoyed the live music and it was a high point of our night."
Jonathan hired You Say We Play for a Wedding
FAQs about hiring Wedding Bands in the UK
Take the stress out of hiring musicians with Encore
What is cheaper, a wedding band or a DJ?
The cost of a wedding band or a DJ can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, experience, reputation, and the exact services provided. However, in general, wedding bands cost more than DJs as they have multiple musicians, instruments, sound systems, and often require more rehearsal time. While DJs are a cost-effective option, live bands bring energy and atmosphere to your wedding day, enhancing the overall experience. While DJs offer a playlist, wedding bands offer a genuine, emotive performance, making your special day truly extraordinary and leaving a lasting impression on you and your guests. It’s important to note that most bands will play pre-recorded music through their PA system before and during their live shows to get people in the mood and keep the party going. Most bands provide this for free, however, some may charge a small fee. If you want a DJ service after the final live set until the end of the evening, most bands charge between £150 and £250 on average. As with all musicians, choosing a band that is closer to the venue will help reduce travel fees and overall costs, so we recommend considering local wedding bands first.
Is a wedding band worth it?
Yes, hiring a live wedding band is definitely worth it. The intimacy and intensity of live music can heighten celebrations and they interact with your guests on a more intimate level, making the occasion feel more special. Hiring a professional wedding band also ensures smooth transitions, appropriate volume levels, and a flawless performance.
What time should a wedding band start?
It's completely dependent on what you want for your day! Usually a wedding band will play for a few hours at the evening party (e.g. 7:30-10:30pm). However, lots of bands offer an acoustic afternoon set for the drinks reception or wedding breakfast (e.g. the singer and guitarist performing as a duo), or may offer a late night DJ set for a small additional charge.
How long do you need a band at a wedding?
Typically, wedding bands perform two 1-hour sets or three 40-minute sets, with a 15- to 30-minute break in between. Setup and soundcheck will take about an hour and a half for your band.
Can a wedding band play outside?
This is possible if the weather is warm enough and there is a marquee/gazebo that covers the group and protects the electrical equipment. They will also require access to a nearby power source.
How do I choose a wedding band?
Start by defining your budget and discussing your music preferences with your partner. Consider your wedding theme and venue, ensuring the band aligns with your vision. If stuck, speak to one of our experts who can provide you with tailored recommendations to suit your tastes and budget. You can look through our musician’s profiles, watching videos of them performing to see how they engage with their audience and listening to samples to gauge their style. You can also check client reviews to be assured of their professionalism and reliability. You can also use our platform to talk to the musicians directly about song requests and customisation options to make your wedding music personal to your relationship. Finally, confirm the band's availability, agree on any requirements they might have, and secure your choice promptly to ensure a seamless musical experience on your special day.
Why are wedding music bands so expensive?
Wedding music bands come with a higher price tag due to several factors. Firstly, their members are experienced and talented musicians who have dedicated years to perfecting their craft. The time and effort invested in rehearsals, song selection, and personalisation for each wedding contribute to their pricing. Additionally, professional bands use high-quality musical instruments, sound systems, and lighting equipment to ensure top-notch performance quality, all of which come at a significant cost. These bands offer versatility by covering a wide range of music genres and accommodating specific song requests, requiring extensive preparation and practice. Moreover, reputable bands incur expenses for liability insurance and taxes, all of which contribute to their operational costs. If the wedding venue is distant, travel and accommodation expenses further add to the overall price. When hiring a wedding band, couples are not just paying for the performance but also for the expertise, preparation, equipment, and customisation that go into creating a memorable musical experience for their special day.
What songs will a wedding band perform?
Professional wedding bands usually have extensive song lists—they're experienced musicians and will cater the songs they play to fit the mood of the night (with your input and ideas of course!). A wedding band's first priority is hitting the right tunes at the right time, getting your guests dancing, and making sure the evening is unforgettable. Unlike a pre-organised Spotify playlist, wedding bands will 'read the room', providing the right musical atmosphere to suit the moment. Make sure you tell the band the song you'd like them to play for the first dance well in advance—they might already know it, but best not to risk it!
When should I get the band to perform?
After the wedding dinner is usually your best bet. The band will normally set up during dinner, and be ready to start the party when you are. If you're after something low-key, getting the band to play background music during canapes is not unheard of—simply let them know beforehand.
Will the wedding band provide all their own equipment?
Wedding bands will come well-prepared with all their own equipment: lights, PA system, music gear, and sometimes even a sound assistant! To give them a break between their sets, they will also often provide a DJ service, which will keep the guests happy and the dancefloor moving (& perhaps, even grooving—depends on if you invited crazy uncle Albert or not).
How far in advance should I book my wedding band?
We recommend making a reservation as soon as possible because the best wedding bands frequently get booked a year (or more) in advance. However, at Encore, we manage last-minute reservations and can easily find a wedding band on short notice. If you need help booking wedding entertainment for your big day, have a look at Encore's curated collection of bands to hire for weddings or speak to one of our experts for additional peace of mind.
How to book a wedding band?
Encore is the simplest method for hiring a live wedding band. You can look through hundreds of band profiles, and customer reviews, and watch videos on our website to get a sense of how the bands perform live and engage with the audience. After you've selected a few, you can use our website to submit a request and receive quotations in a matter of hours. You can also speak with a member of our team personally, provide some information, and receive recommendations that are specifically catered to your needs.
What to look for in a wedding music band?
What to look for in a wedding band will depend on the size of your wedding, type of wedding, if you’re having an outdoor or indoor wedding, your music preferences and how much crowd interaction you’d like. Other things you might want to consider include: - How many weddings they have performed before and check the reviews on their profile. - Consider your guests' ages and musical tastes. Will there be a good mix of music for everyone to enjoy? - Do you want high-energy dance music all night, or a mix of upbeat and slower, romantic songs? With Encore, you can find all this information on the musician’s profiles and we put you in touch directly with the musicians so you can make sure the night goes exactly how you want it. Another option is to speak to one of our music experts directly who help thousands of couples looking for bands for weddings They’ll talk to you about your preferences and style of wedding and get back to you with personalised recommendations in a matter of hours.
Does wedding band play during dinner?
Traditionally, wedding bands take a break during dinner service. This allows guests to focus on enjoying their meal, have conversations, and avoid competing with loud music. However, you can book a wedding band that offers different line-up options throughout the day. For example, the two of the members can perform as a duo or trio to provide smooth background music during the dinner and then perform a livelier altogether for the party afterwards. This can also be a great cost-saving option as hiring multiple, separate musicians for one event can be expensive. Talk to one of our experts today or speak with the bands directly to find out more.
Hiring a Wedding Band Near You
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Wedding Bands to Fit Your Theme
Often couples will want to music which complements the vision and vibe they have for their big day. Encore has one of the largest selections of wedding music bands in the UK so see below our top picks for popular wedding themes.
Vintage
The word "vintage" can mean different things to different people. Whether you want a 1920s Gatsby theme or a 1950s retro wedding, Encore can help you with your big day.
Jazz Bands
Jazz is a classic, versatile, and sophisticated genre of music that is perfect for a vintage-themed wedding. Our skilled jazz wedding bands perform music that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,200
Swing Bands
Swing music was popular in the 1930s and 1940s and our skillful swing wedding bands can play a variety of swing tunes. From classic hits for background music to more modern tunes to get everyone up and dancing.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,041
50s Rock 'n' Roll Bands
50’s Rock n Roll bands are perfect for couples looking for energetic yet nostalgic music. At Encore, we have bands that perform music from Rock n Roll legends like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,000
Rustic
Consider hiring a wedding band that plays folk, country, or acoustic music for a cosy rustic wedding vibe. This will enhance the charming atmosphere of your big day.
Acoustic Bands
Acoustic bands with their stripped-back performances can create an intimate atmosphere, perfectly suited for the rustic setting.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,200
Folk Bands
Folk music, often rooted in tradition and storytelling, provides heartfelt and intimate performances. Folk music can express different feelings like happiness, reflection, and love, making it perfect for a rustic wedding.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,200
Ceilidh Bands
A ceilidh band is a more interactive and vibrant form of wedding entertainment, perfect for your rustic wedding. Whether you're Scottish or not, you can have fun dancing at a Ceilidh. A caller will teach you the steps, bringing everyone together for a joyful celebration.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £979
Bohemian
For a Bohemian wedding, book a wedding band with raw, authentic sounds and a free-spirited style.
Indie Bands
Indie bands bring an effortlessly cool vibe, perfectly capturing the free-spirited essence of the theme. Our indie bands can change their music style to give you the intimate, raw performance you desire.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,200
Gypsy Jazz Bands
Gypsy jazz music played with guitars and violin, brings a fun and carefree vibe, great for a bohemian wedding theme.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,200
Classic
For a classical and traditional-themed wedding day, we recommend timeless bands who have stood the test of time. See below for our top choices of classic wedding bands that can add a touch of sophistication to your big day.
Wedding Bands
The most popular choice of bands for weddings and for good reason. Wedding bands are experienced and professional as they have played at many weddings. Encore has the largest selection of wedding bands for hire in the UK, making it easy for you to find the perfect band for your wedding day.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,326
Soul & Motown Bands
There’s like the catchy tunes and infectious rhythms of Soul and Motown to get everyone up on their feet. Our Soul & Motown bands bring energetic performances and engaging stage presences that keep the party going on night long!
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,500
Roaming Bands
Roaming bands are some of the best live bands for weddings because, unlike stage bands, roaming musicians interact directly with your guests. As such, they’re also great for weddings of all sizes and can cater to different groups and moods within your guest list.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,400
Looking For Something Unique?
At Encore, we offer a wide variety of live music bands for weddings in the UK. If you want your special day to stand out, consider our top recommendations below.
Steel Drum Bands
Steel Drums are the sound of summer. Great for outdoor or beach weddings, steel drums have a calming and fun sound that no other instrument can match.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,200
Brass Bands
Brass bands aren’t just limited to loud marches. Brass bands today can play a variety of music genres, from classical to pop and funk. Their vibrant performances make them perfect for getting the party started at wedding receptions.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £950
Mariachi Bands
Mariachi bands are always the life of the party. Our bands can play more than just Mariachi music. They know a variety of songs and can even do special versions of modern songs at your request.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £1,035
Bavarian Oompah Bands
If you have German roots or love Oktoberfest, think about hiring a Bavarian Oompah band for your event. Oompah bands are not common at weddings, so they will be a conversation starter and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Average price for 2 hour performance with 4 members: £925
Why Us?
For musicians, by musicians
Most of the Encore team are musicians and we ensure our musicians are paid fairly. We also work hard to provide great music experiences for our clients.
Unmatched selection of top-tier musicians
As the largest platform for booking musicians in the UK, we have an extensive collection of musicians. Being musicians ourselves, we carefully vet every musician so that you can be confident in their quality and professionalism.
Peace of mind
Encore offers free Basic protection for bookings paid with card or bank transfer. This ensures you get a full refund if the musician cancels.
For extra peace of mind, you can purchase Encore Cover for a small fee, starting at £15. This cover provides support outside of normal hours and ensures a replacement artist of equal or better quality. It also covers up to 10% of the cost if the replacement act is more expensive.
The world’s most sustainable way to book live music
Encore is a climate-positive workforce. We balance out musicians' travel emissions, plant a tree for each booking, and offset our staff's carbon footprint. With Ecologi, we have planted wetlands in Morotaola and helped restore the rainforest in Mozambique.
Transparent pricing and direct communication
At Encore, we believe in transparent pricing. We provide all-inclusive quotes to our clients, so you don't have to worry about any hidden fees, making the whole process hassle-free.
Once you've submitted an enquiry to your chosen musician(s), you will receive quotes in a matter of hours, saving you precious time.
A guide to hiring Wedding Bands
Take the hassle out of hiring Wedding Bands with Encore Musicians
Find a Local Wedding Band Near You
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