Wedding Band: Your Top Questions

When it comes to your wedding, the right music is key to creating the perfect atmosphere. So, before you book your wedding band, it's important to ask them a few questions to ensure they're the right fit for your special day. Here's a list of some essential questions to get you started:

- Are you available on my wedding date?

- How long have you been performing at weddings?

- Can I see a list of your song repertoire?

- Can we provide input on the set list?

- Can you help us choose music for specific moments, like the first dance?

- Have you performed at my venue before?

- What equipment do you need, and do you have a backup plan?

- How many breaks do you require, and how long are they?

- What's included in your pricing package?

- Do you have liability insurance?

- What's your cancellation policy?

Remember, the band's experience, repertoire, and technical requirements are crucial aspects to consider. You'll also want to discuss the duration of their performance, their interaction with guests, and any special requests you may have. By asking these questions, you can ensure that your wedding day is even more special and memorable!

Logistics: How much space and what equipment will the band need?

When it comes to planning your wedding, logistics are key. Asking your wedding band the right questions will ensure that your big day goes off without a hitch. Here are some detailed and direct questions to ask your wedding band about their space and equipment requirements:

Firstly, it's important to establish how much space your wedding band will require for their performance. This will depend on the number of band members and the equipment they use. A solo musician will obviously require less space than a 10-piece band. As a general rule, the more space you can offer, the better. Here are some minimum space requirements for different band sizes:

• Solo: 2 x 2 metres or 6 x 6 feet
• Duo: 2.5 x 1.5 metres
• Trio: 3 x 2 metres
• 3-piece band: 3 x 2.5 metres
• 4-piece band: 4 x 3 metres
• 5-piece band: 5 x 3 metres
• 6-piece band: 5 x 3 metres or 6 x 4 metres
• 7-piece band and upwards: 6 x 4 metres or 7 x 4 metres and upwards

In addition to knowing how much space the band needs, it's also crucial to find out what equipment they will be bringing. Most wedding bands are self-contained and bring everything they need, including lights, PA systems, instruments, DJ equipment, outfits, cables, microphones, and spares. Here are some equipment-related questions to ask:

• Will you need us to supply any equipment for your performance?
• Do you bring backup equipment?
• Do you require any special electrical outlets or power sockets?
• Will you need a stage to perform on?
• Will you set up a sign or banner with your equipment?
• What will you need for your soundcheck?

By asking these questions, you can ensure that your wedding band has all the space and equipment they need to create a memorable performance for your special day.

Experience: How many weddings has the band played at?

While it's important to ask a wedding band about their experience performing at weddings, it's also a good idea to ask how many weddings they've played at. This will give you a sense of their level of experience and whether they're the right fit for your special day. Here are some questions to consider asking:

• How long have you been playing at weddings?
• How often do you perform at weddings?
• How many weddings have you played at in total?
• How many weddings have you played at in the last year?
• Have you worked at my wedding venue before?
• Can we watch you perform before our wedding?
• Can you send us a list of reviews from your other clients?

By asking these questions, you can gauge the band's experience and determine if they have the necessary skills and knowledge to create the perfect atmosphere for your wedding. Remember to ask follow-up questions and request specific details to get a clear understanding of their experience level.

Repertoire: Can the band play a diverse range of music?

A wedding band can make or break your wedding. Their energy level, performance style, and song selection will either elevate the atmosphere or dampen the mood. It's important to ask the right questions to ensure you're booking the right band for your wedding.

Genres and Diversity

Ask the band about the genres they perform. Do they lean towards a particular style? Are they able to play a diverse range of music? A good mix of classic hits, current pop songs, and sentimental tunes will keep your guests engaged. Consider the diverse tastes of your guests—a wide range of music will ensure there's something for everyone.

Speciality Music

If you're planning a culture-specific wedding, it's imperative to hire a band that is familiar with the music associated with that culture. If you want songs predominantly sung in a specific language, ensure the band is fluent in that language.

New Songs

Find out how often the band adds new songs to their repertoire. Are they up-to-date with current hits? How do they keep their music collection current?

Requests and Playlists

Ask if you can submit a playlist of song requests before the wedding. Is there a limit to how many requests you can make? Can guests make requests on the day? It's also a good idea to create a "do-not-play" list to ensure the band avoids any songs or genres you dislike.

Breaks

Bands will need to take breaks, so find out how music will still be played during this time. You could prepare a playlist of upbeat dancing music to be played during the band's intermissions, or ask the band if they will play approved filler music.

Sound Checks and Setup

Ask the band how much time they will need for setup, soundcheck, and breakdown on the day of the event. You'll want to avoid any setup being done once guests have arrived, so ensure you book enough time.

Communication

Be sure to communicate every special or out-of-the-ordinary thing you have planned. If you have a surprise planned, let the band know. It's important that everyone is on the same page to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

Performance: How long will the band play for?

When it comes to the performance of your wedding band, one of the most important things to discuss is the duration of their performance. Typically, live wedding bands play for two to three hours, which can be split into sets with breaks in between. However, some bands offer shorter performances, while others may be willing to play for longer.

It is essential to communicate with the band about the duration of their performance and any specific timing requirements you may have. For example, if you want the band to play during the ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception, ensure they can accommodate your timeline.

Discuss breaks with the band as well. Some bands take short breaks between sets, so ensure you talk about how long these breaks will be and if the band will provide additional music during those breaks, such as recorded music or a DJ.

By having a clear understanding of the performance duration and breaks, you can ensure that you know what to expect on your wedding day and that the band can deliver the level of performance you desire.

• How long will you play for?
• Are you willing to play for longer if needed, and what would the additional cost be?
• Can we split your performance into sets with breaks in between?
• How long will your breaks be, and will you provide music during those breaks?
• Are you able to play during the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, or do we need to adjust our timeline?

Remember, communication is key to ensuring that both you and the band are on the same page and that your wedding day runs smoothly.

Cost: How much does the band charge?

The cost of a wedding band is a major factor when deciding who to book. It's important to find out exactly what their rate includes to avoid any surprise fees after signing a contract. Ask for a detailed breakdown of their pricing package, including how long they will perform and whether they can provide dance floor lighting, for example.

The average cost of a wedding band in the UK in 2023 was between £1000-£1800, but this can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, travel costs, and the number of musicians in the band. The more musicians there are, the higher the price tag, so consider opting for a smaller line-up to save money.

For a solo musician, prices can range from £250-£500 or more. A duo typically includes a singer and guitarist and can cost from £500-£800. A trio can cost from £600-£1400, and a 4-piece band from £900-£2500. For a 5-piece band and larger, prices can start from £1200 and go up to £5000 or more.

If you're looking for a rock and pop band, you should be able to find a 3-piece band for under £1000. Soul and Motown bands are generally more expensive, with line-ups starting at 6 members, and prices starting at £1750.

In addition to the band's performance, there may be other costs to consider, such as setup and breakdown services, overtime charges, and travel expenses. Ask the band to outline any additional fees that could accrue, such as special musical requests or equipment rental.

To save money, consider booking a local band to reduce transport and accommodation costs. You may also be able to get a discount for a winter or midweek wedding, or by booking a band at the last minute.

Be sure to get a clear understanding of the band's pricing and what is included in their package before making a decision.

Frequently asked questions