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[H2] Function band FAQs

New to this? We've put together some of the most common questions we receive about function bands, so you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

[H3] What is a function band?

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.

[H3] What sort of events do your function bands play at?

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.

[H3] What type of music do your function bands perform?

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.

[H3] How do we book a function band?

Finding and booking a band is easy:
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.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.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.

[H3] What does the band’s fee include?

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 equipment2 x 60 minute or 3 x 40 minute sets, through until midnight at the latestall equipment required for the band's performance, including lightingrecorded music between the band's sets, if no DJ has been bookedall travel expenses (and accommodation if applicable)PAT and PLI certificates if requiredOur exceptional, 5-star rated customer service

[H3] Will the band bring all their own equipment?

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).

[H3] How long do function bands need to set up?

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.

[H3] How long will the band play for on the night?

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.

[H3] How much does a function band cost?

Function band prices range from a 3-piece band costing around £810 to a show band of 10 musicians costing upwards of £9250.In 2024, the average price paid for a function band was £1675. The median (most common) price paid was £1375, 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.

[H3] How can we save money on our function band?

Shop around: Look for different bands and compare their rates. You might find that some bands charge more than others for similar services.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. 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.Book a band near you: hire a local band to save money on travel and accommodation costs.

[H2] Browse our most popular function bands

Our best-selling function bands typically cover a wide range of rock, pop and soul music through the decades. Their aim is to fill your dancefloor and appeal to all ages at mixed generation events.

[H2] Wedding band FAQs

We understand that this process may be new to you, and we're here to make it as stress-free as possible. Here are the most frequently asked questions about booking a wedding band.

[H3] What type of music do your wedding bands play?

Most of our wedding bands play a mix of rock, pop, soul and modern chart music from the 1960s to today, designed to keep all ages on the dancefloor.Because weddings are mixed-generation events, setlists usually include songs that parents, grandparents and friends will all know. Broadly, our bands fall into three main styles:Rock, pop and indie bands – electric guitars, drums and vocals, covering everything from classic rock to Britpop and current chart hits.Soul, Motown and funky pop bands – often with keys and brass, playing classic floor-fillers and upbeat party tunes.Festival folk bands – acoustic, Mumford-style line-ups with acoustic guitar, double bass and sometimes fiddle or banjo.A typical wedding band set might include upbeat, danceable songs by artists as varied as The Beatles, Prince, Oasis and Dua Lipa.If you’re after something less traditional, our brass and drums bands are an increasingly popular alternative to the classic guitar band, while ceilidh bands go down well with both kids and grandparents. Jazz and swing bands are ideal for vintage-themed weddings.For more offbeat ideas, take a look at our alternative wedding bands.

[H3] Do your wedding bands take first dance requests?

Yes, in most cases, our wedding bands and musicians are delighted to learn and perform your first dance song live on your big day.Here’s how it works:As soon as you’ve chosen your song, send us the title, artist, and a link (or audio file), ideally as early as possible, as many bands ask for at least 3–4 months (or a minimum of 4 weeks) notice. This helps ensure there’s enough time to rehearse.We’ll evaluate whether your song fits the band’s style and instrumentation. If it works, we’ll learn it; if not, or if it’s outside their comfort zone (e.g., a jazz-style song for a rock/pop band), we’ll suggest playing the original recording instead, via our PA system.In most cases, this service is free, but for complex songs or additional custom requests beyond one or two, a small fee may apply (depending on the song’s arrangement and rehearsal time required).To help the band deliver their best performance, you’re welcome to share any sheet music, chord charts, or backing-track links, especially for songs with unusual structure, uncommon instruments, or if you want a particular arrangement.If your first dance is choreographed to a specific recording or tempo, be aware: live performances may vary slightly with tempo and structure. In those cases, using the original track might offer more consistency.Finally, to increase the odds that your song can be performed live, consider choosing from our most popular first dance songs list. Songs on that list are often already in a band’s repertoire or more easily adaptable.If you’re unsure whether your song will work, or if you want to request more than one custom song, just ask and we’ll let you know what’s feasible.

[H3] Can we choose the music our wedding band will play on the night?

Want to choose exactly what music your wedding band plays on the night? Here’s how it works:Have a look at the band's song list on their profile page, then compile a list of your preferred songs and send them to us before the big day. For more inspiration, browse our wedding party songs list and make a note of any that are also on your bands repertoire – these are tried and tested floor fillers. The band will then try to include as much of your favourite wedding band music as they can on the night.Do be aware though, that they may not be able to fulfil each and every one of your requests. This is because they may need to add or remove songs with certain tempos or dynamics, "on the fly", depending on audience reaction.

[H3] Can the band play other song requests?

Yes, you and your guests are welcome to request additional wedding songs in advance for the band to play on the night. We’ll always do our best to work your requests into the set, provided the songs suit the band’s style and are part of (or can be added to) their repertoire.In most cases on-the-night requests won’t be accepted, this is so the band can ensure all songs have been properly arranged and rehearsed in advance, giving you the best experience possible.

[H3] How much does a wedding band cost?

Wedding band prices in the UK vary depending on band size, style, and event details, ranging from around £750 to over £3000.The median (typical) price paid for a wedding band in 2024 was approximately £1350, for a band with four members.Keep in mind that the "from" prices listed on the website are starting prices and reflective of an off-peak (winter or midweek), event (with no travel or accommodation costs added). Send us an enquiry, including your venue location, so we can send you an accurate quote.

[H3] What does our wedding band quote include?

Our wedding band packages are designed to provide everything you need for live music at your wedding, from full setup and sound equipment to performances, recorded music between sets, and complete event support. Here are the details: All equipment (sound, lighting etc.) necessary for the performance.Set up and sound-check (60-90 minutes) in the early eveningA two hour performance in total, divided into either two or three "sets", with short breaks in between, and a finish by midnight.Recorded music in the breaks, if you don't already have a DJ.All travel and accommodation costs.All relevant insurance and appliance test certificates.Ongoing support right up until your event date (and emergency support on the day), from our experienced events team.All fees will include VAT, unless otherwise indicated on your quote.

[H3] How long do wedding bands play for?

Wedding bands in the UK usually perform for two hours, split into two or three live sets with short intervals, providing live music for your wedding reception. These sets can include things like first dance songs and father-daughter dance songs.But bands can play for less time, or longer (usually for an additional cost) if it suits your event better.

[H3] Do I need to book a wedding DJ as well?

You don’t necessarily need to book a separate wedding DJ, as all our UK wedding bands for hire provide recorded music during their intervals through their PA system.Many bands are also able to upgrade to a more advanced service using virtual DJ software so that they can mix songs and take your guests’ requests.If you have specialised music requests, require extra lighting, or you're planning a very late finish, we'd recommend booking a professional wedding DJ.

[H3] How far in advance should I book my wedding band?

Wedding bands in the UK are typically booked 6 to 12 months in advance, with the most popular bands often reserved even earlier.For that reason, we recommend starting your search as early as 18 months before your wedding. This is especially important if you're planning a Saturday wedding between April and September.If you're planning an off-season wedding (between October and March) or a weekday wedding, you can probably afford to start looking a bit later.

[H3] We’ve found a wedding band we love - how do we book?

Booking a wedding band in the UK is straightforward once you’ve chosen your ideal band and received a quote from us. Simply get in touch by email or phone on 0333 242 0560, and we’ll begin the secure booking process.We’ll prepare a contract between you and the band immediately, ensuring all details are confirmed. To secure the booking, a deposit is required via credit or debit card, with the remaining balance due closer to, or on, your wedding day.For more information, read our full guide on how to book a wedding band for your wedding.

[H3] Will the band bring their own sound and lighting equipment?

Our UK wedding bands come fully equipped with everything needed for a seamless live performance, from PA systems and backline amplifiers to stage and dancefloor lighting. This equipment is suitable for most events up to around 250 guests but iIf you're expecting more than 250 guests, let us know, so we can check whether the band’s system is large enough.Most bands will also bring lighting for both the stage and dancefloor.Check out our wedding bands' profile page for more details, as well as other optional add-ons to enhance the show.For more essential queries to put to your band read our 20 questions to ask your wedding band guide.

[H3] Do your wedding bands have insurance and PAT-tested equipment?

Yes, our wedding bands are fully insured, and all equipment is up to date with PAT testing.

[H3] When will the band arrive and set up?

UK wedding bands typically arrive and set up 60–90 minutes before their performance, ensuring everything is ready for your live wedding music. This is typically around 5-6pm and during this time they will unload equipment, set up and perform a soundcheck. Most wedding bands will aim to begin their first set anytime from 7.30pm, after the first dance. But we recommend they start later than this, if possible, particularly in summer.Feel free to ask us about any specific timing requirements you may have. For example, you may need the band to avoid sound-checking during dinner or wedding speeches.

[H3] How much space does a live wedding band need?

When hiring a wedding band, it’s important to provide enough space for their performance; most 3-piece live bands need roughly 3m by 3m, increasing to an additional square metre in width with each musician added. A raised stage always helps a live wedding band make a bigger impact but this isn’t essential. The performance space mainly just needs to be flat and dry!Before you speak to your venue, you might like to check out our handy venue checklist. This contains all the questions worth asking your venue before you book a band for a wedding, from sound limiters to curfews.

[H3] What else do we need to provide for the band on the day?

To support your wedding band’s performance, couples should provide power sockets, meals, and, where necessary, parking or a secure changing area.Please also make sure your wedding band has the food and refreshments that they need on the night. Bands performing in the evening will require a hot meal to keep their energy levels up!Check each band’s profile page for any specific requirements.

[H3] What is a sound limiter and will it be a problem for the band?

Sound limiters are common in UK wedding venues, and while they can affect live bands, most wedding bands are experienced at performing within these limits.Sound limiters are designed to cut off the power to the band when the music or the crowd’s applause exceeds a certain volume, which can damage band equipment.First, check whether your sound limiter can be turned off for the performance.If not, don't panic - most live wedding bands can perform within the limits of a sound limiter set to 95dB or higher.If your venue's limiter is set to a lower threshold than this, let us know so we can check this isn't a problem with the band. We may need to suggest an acoustic act, or a band who can use an electric drum kit.

[H3] Can your wedding bands perform outdoors?

Many UK wedding bands are able to perform outdoors, provided there is suitable cover and access to power for their equipment.You’ll need to give us a heads up when booking, so we can make sure the band can perform at their best at your outdoor wedding.

[H3] What happens if the band cancels or a musician is ill?

Our UK wedding bands are selected based on both their amazing performance skills and their reliability, so it’s unlikely that your band won’t play as planned. However, if inclement weather, accidents or illness strike, we offer a round the clock service ensuring a suitable replacement live wedding band will be sent instead.

[H2] Top wedding band music genres

[H2] Guide to booking local bands

[H3] How much do bands cost and why should I hire a local band?

In 2024, the typical price paid for a function band was £1350 mark. This would normally get you a 4-piece band.
What you may not know is that you can reduce these prices substantially when hiring a band locally, as you'd be saving on travel and accommodation costs. Bear in mind that most musicians will charge for the time that they've spent travelling, as well as their fuel costs.
There's also the added environmental benefit. By using a local band you'll help keep the carbon footprint of your event to a minimum.
Use the regional search menus at the top of this page to find bands in your local area. We cover the south east, south west, east and west midlands, wales and the entire north of the country.

[H3] What sort of events are your local bands suitable for?

From Bar Mitzvahs to retirement dos, annual office parties to New Year's celebrations, birthdays and weddings, we provide the very best local bands to hire for every chapter of your life.
The bands on this page specialise in getting guests dancing at after-dinner functions - but if you're looking for music you can talk over at an afternoon drinks reception or early evening meal, browse our background musicians in the menus at the top of this page.

[H3] What style of music do your bands play?

You can see a complete list of any particular band's repertoire on their profile page, but, on the whole, our local bands for hire perform well-known, pop, rock and soul covers from artists over the last 50 years. All the bands on this page are intended for after-dinner dancing at weddings and parties.
You can book anything from a 3-piece guitar band, through to a 10-piece show band featuring a brass section, backing vocalists and percussion.
From Elvis and The Beatles to contemporary hits by Dua Lipa, Beyoncé and The Weeknd, nothing is off limits for our bands!
If you have a specific genre in mind and would rather a band that focuses on a theme, check out our soul and funk bands, swing bands or our tribute acts that cover the 60s, 70s and 80s.

[H3] What are other ways to reduce the cost of our band?

Aside from hiring a band in your local area, we recommend the following:
book the band on a weekdays or in winter for the lowest costs.consider hiring a 3-piece band, or even a duo – look for duos who incorporate a rhythmic element such as a cajon drum, or use backing tracks, so you can still dance to them.Many of our function bands can also perform afternoon background music that will then save you additional costs in booking others to travel and perform at a different time of day.If you haven't got a definite date in mind for your function yet, you might want to think about hosting a midweek or winter event to make the most of our bands reduced rates.

[H3] Are your local wedding bands able to learn a new song for us?

In most cases, yes! Though this does depend on the song. If it's a quirkier choice with a heavy production factor (for example, including strings and woodwind), it may not be easy for the band to do justice to the original recording.
In this case, all of our local wedding bands will be able to play the recording of your song through their sound system.

[H3] Do your local bands bring their own sound and lighting equipment?

Absolutely! All our local bands for hire are self-contained and bring their own PA sound system as well as the microphones, amplifiers and instruments that they need for your event.
What's more, almost all of our bands will bring a lighting rig to add even more ambience to your function.
Let us know if you're expecting more than 200 guests at your event so that we can double check that the band's sound system is large enough.

[H3] Is there any equipment that we need to provide?

The only thing our bands need is access to a power supply and a suitably sized space to perform in.
As a guide, we suggest putting aside a 4m wide x 3m deep space for a typical 4-piece band – and then adding an extra square metre for each extra band member. 3-piece bands and duos will need less space.
If it's possible to have this space on a raised stage, that will always help your band have a bigger impact but the most important thing is that the space is flat and dry!

[H3] How long will the band need to set up?

On the whole, our function bands just need 60-90 minutes from around 5pm or 6pm to set up their gear and run a quick sound check.It's best if the room where the band are sound-checking is closed off to guests, to avoid any disruption.

[H3] How long will the band play for on the night?

If you're booking a band for after-dinner dancing, most of our acts will perform 2 x 60 minute sets from around 9pm, through to midnight - normally with a half hour interval.
If you're keen to keep the music going after midnight, either with the band or their DJ service, an extra fee may apply.

[H2] All genres

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from£995

Skylight

Sheffield

3

(129)

Powerful party and wedding band, ready to get your party rocking! The band have a diverse songlist which will surprise, delight and keep your guests dancing and singing along.

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from£2,700

Party Up

Kent

6-10

(224)

Party down with Party Up, the slickest soul, funk and R&B band in the South East! Featuring sax and up to three stunning vocalists, the band count Sky, Cadburys and Emma Thompson among their regular clients.

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from£1,250

The Sweet and Lowdown

Brighton

4

(281)

Unique party band and winners of the TWIA Wedding Awards (South East Bands category). Featuring male and female vocals and playing retro classics and rock'n'roll through to 80s funk, 90s R&B and quirky takes on modern chart.

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from£1,815

Manhattan

Leeds

5-10

(107)

Dynamic Motown, pop and soul band with stunning female and male lead vocals, impressive industry credentials and a playlist of soulful floor-fillers by artists such as Marvin Gaye, Justin Timberlake and Rihanna.

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from£1,595

Level Up

Manchester

4-7

(69)

Fresh and full of energy, this band combines timeless soulful hits with today’s biggest chart-toppers for the ultimate live music experience.

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from£1,290

The Runaways

Surrey

4

(127)

Youthful, charismatic new 4-piece, channelling rock, dance, hip-hop and soul influences. This band get phenomenal reviews and are legends at filling dancefloors. Highly recommended!

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from£1,125

Rockit

Surrey

3-4

(324)

Amp up your party with Rockit: a sensational party band with a huge catalogue of rock, indie and pop floor-fillers from Chuck Berry and The Beatles to Billie Eilish and Ed Sheeran.

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from£1,695

The Crossfades

Bristol

4-5

(130)

With no less than three vocalists in the band, The Crossfades serve up the best vintage and modern rock, pop and indie covers with a side of crowd-pleasing charm.

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from£1,180

Agent Smith

Manchester

4-6

(276)

Exceptional party and wedding band playing everything from vintage 1950s rock’n’roll to cutting edge pop, indie and R&B. High profile clients include BT, Mini Cooper and Microsoft.

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from£995

Locomove

London

3-4

(161)

Turbo-charged Locomove earn top reviews on Function Central, and excel at reading the dancefloor—like a live DJ, but with even more energy! Whether you're into modern or retro rock and pop, the band play all the bangers you and your guests actually want to hear.

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from£1,995

Downtown Underground

Manchester

6-7

(145)

World-class pop, funk and soul function band, refreshing and recreating the classic soul sounds of the 60s, 70s and 80s, alongside soul-infused contemporary pop and R&B.

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from£1,690

Mojo Brass Band

London

4-8

(67)

Mojo Brass are a funky, punchy brass powerhouse made up of the UK's best up-and-coming sax players, trumpeters and drummer. Their track list blends rarer grooves with mainstream crowd-pleasers.

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from£1,490

Shake The Moon

Bristol

4

(77)

A sassy, classy, badass party band with 10 years experience playing the live music scene in the South West. The band features both male and female lead vocals, with DJ services and acoustic sets also available.

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from£2,900

PYT

London

3

(66)

Live DJ band featuring soulful female vocals and soaring sax solos, and playing all your favourite tunes from 80s anthems through to this year's bangers.

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from£1,225

The Different Lights

Liverpool

4

(132)

Outstanding wedding band playing chart, indie, rock anthems and Britpop and featuring guitars, keyboards and vocal harmonies for a big, versatile sound!

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from£1,160

Kickstart

Birmingham

3-4

(59)

Breathtaking vocals, lush harmonies and an explosive rhythm section – this West Midlands wedding party band play a wide selection of soul, disco, rock’n’roll and the latest indie to keep you dancing until the wee hours! DJ service available.

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from£2,150

The Soul Cats

London

5-7

(118)

Infectiously energetic and spirited pop, soul and Motown band featuring sax and two extraordinary vocal talents – guaranteed to get your guests dancing. Chose between male or female vocals or both.

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from£1,550

Century

Manchester

4-5

(67)

With joint female and male lead vocals and a backing band of unrivalled funkmeisters, Century put on a fun, rip-roaring show that your guests will never forget.

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from£865

Moongroove

Somerset

4-5

(9)

Infectious 4-piece fusing soul, pop and rock band with silky-smooth lead vocals and dancefloor-filling classics.

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from£1,445

Haus of Dance

London

2-6

(19)

Electrifying and glamorous, this dynamic group delivers decades of club classics—90s House, Disco, Drum & Bass, and EDM—infused with the wild energy of 1970s nightlife.

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[H1] My enquiry list
Shortlist your favourite acts below, enter your event details and receive tailored quotes within one working day.

[H3]
Tel: 0333 242 0560 (standard local rate)Email: info@functioncentral.co.ukLive chat: accessible on every pageOffice hours: Mon to Fri, 9am to 6pmPostal address: 86-90 Paul Street, Hoxton, London, EC2A 4NE

[H2] Want to join our books?

We're always on the lookout for more bands, solo musicians, duos & DJs for our books. If you are a fully self-contained act with all your own equipment/PA, and road transport and you're looking for more private function work, please fill in our quick application form.Please ensure you have video and professional promo photos available, before contacting us.If we think you're the kind of act we're currently looking for, we'll be sure to get back in touch for more info. Please note, due to the high volume of listing requests we receive, unfortunately we won't be able to respond to all applications.

[H2] Emergency contact

For emergencies call: 07816 311 398
IMPORTANT: please only use our emergency number if you are an existing customer with an event taking place within the next 24 hours

[H2] Company information

Company registration number6308152Registered addressThe Old Creamery, North Barrow, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LZVAT no.901447549