Hire function bands, musicians or DJs for your event

A function band (also commonly referred to as a wedding band, party band or cover band) is a group of musicians hired to play cover songs at private events.

A function band's role at an event is clearly defined. It could be to play background music during a drinks reception, or music to dance to in the evening.

From birthdays to anniversaries, weddings to Christmas office parties and New Year bashes, our function bands are here to help you celebrate life's every milestone.

Our roster of the UK's top bands for hire will give your guests something to remember long after the final song.

Our wedding and party bands typically perform upbeat, danceable covers from all eras, incorporating a range of popular genres, from rock to soul and Motown. Since weddings and parties are typically cross-generational events, this ensures all ages and musical tastes are accounted for.

That said, we have function bands specialising in most genres, from jazz and mariachi, to folk and ceilidh. Browse the menus at the top of this page to find the perfect music for your event.

Finding and booking a band is easy:

1. Use the menus at the top of this page to select a genre of function band, then narrow your search using the filters. Enter your event date to restrict the results to available acts only, your budget and your region.
   
   
2. Watch videos for bands and read customer feedback. When you find a function band you like, add them to your enquiry list and submit the form. (access your enquiry list at any time by clicking the shopping basket icon at the top right of the page). We'll double-check availability and send you a quote via email. If you need any advice, please feel free to call us at 0333 242 0560.
   
   
3. Once you receive your quote, just reply to our email to let us know you'd like to go ahead and book your function band. We'll then prepare a secure booking agreement between you and the band. A deposit will be required to secure the booking, payable within seven days.

Our quote will be inclusive of all costs and will typically include the following:

• arrival at your venue from 5pm or 6pm to set up and sound-check the band's equipment

• 2 x 60 minute or 3 x 40 minute sets, through until midnight at the latest

• all equipment required for the band's performance, including lighting

• recorded music between the band's sets, if no DJ has been booked

• all travel expenses (and accommodation if applicable)

• PAT and PLI certificates if required

• Our exceptional, 5-star rated customer service

Yes! The only thing you need to provide is access to a power supply and a suitably sized space to set up in (as a general rule, for 3-piece function band, allow 3 x 3 metres. Then add an extra 1 metre width for every additional band member).

Function bands performing for evening events will require about 60 minutes to set up their gear and run a quick sound check.

Acoustic soloists, duos and classical musicians performing in the afternoon can be set up in half an hour.

Most of our function bands perform 2 x 60 minute sets as standard.

If you're hiring a band for after-dinner dancing, the later the band performs, the better, in our opinion. Your guests will want a pause after eating, and it's easier to create an atmosphere and encourage people to dance after the sun has gone down.

Function band prices range from a 3-piece band costing around £850 to a show band of 10 musicians costing upwards of £3000.

In 2022, the average price paid for a function band was £1850. The median (most common) price paid was £1350, for a 4-piece band.

You can find starting prices on each band's profile page on our website, but bear in mind that this price is reflective of an off-peak (winter or midweek), local event (i.e. with no travel or accommodation costs added). Your final quote will depend on the date and the distance from the band's home location to the venue.

1. Shop around: Look for different bands and compare their rates. You might find that some bands charge more than others for similar services.
2. Consider a smaller band: The number of musicians in a band is the primary factor affecting their fee. Consider booking a 3-piece band (ideally where the lead vocalist doubles up on guitar). They can make just as big a sound as a 4- or 5-piece, and create the same great atmosphere.
   
3. Avoid peak season: Most bands charge more during peak season, such as the summer wedding season, Christmas or New Year's Eve. Consider booking your event during an off-season or midweek date instead.
4. Book a band near you: hire a local band to save money on travel and accommodation costs.