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Wedding bands for hire

Browse handpicked live wedding bands from across the UK and find the perfect act to keep all ages on the dancefloor.

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from£1,125

Rockit

  • Surrey
  • 3-4
  • (308)

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£1,815

Manhattan

  • Leeds
  • 5-10
  • (102)

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£1,250

The Sweet and Lowdown

  • Brighton
  • 4
  • (268)

Fun and totally unique wedding and party band with male and female vocals, playing retro swing, vintage jive and rock'n'roll through to 80s funk, 90s R&B and quirky takes on modern chart.

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from£1,180

Agent Smith

  • Manchester
  • 4-6
  • (270)

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£1,290

The Runaways

  • Surrey
  • 4
  • (123)

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£995

Skylight

  • Sheffield
  • 3
  • (122)

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
  • (218)

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£995

Locomove

  • London
  • 3-4
  • (149)

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
  • (143)

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£1,350

Mastersound

  • Birmingham
  • 4-7
  • (82)

Danceable, piano-led pop and soul band from the West Midlands, with both female and male lead vocals and a song list of danceable rock, soul and pop anthems from Chuck Berry to Adele.

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from£1,485

Level Up

  • Manchester
  • 4-5
  • (68)

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£2,900

PYT

  • London
  • 3
  • (63)

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£1,490

Shake The Moon

  • Bristol
  • 4
  • (75)

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£2,155

The Retrogrooves

  • Birmingham
  • 6-8
  • (56)

The ultimate feel-good band, blending soul, Motown, funk, and pop into high-energy sets that keep dancefloors packed and the party alive.

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from£1,335

The Crossfades

  • Gloucestershire
  • 3-5
  • (127)

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£995

The Aviators

  • Manchester
  • 3-4
  • (63)

With a repertoire spanning six decades, this dynamic party band sings everything from Fleetwood Mac to Daft Punk, promising a hassle-free, all-inclusive celebration with top-notch PA and lighting.

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from£1,690

Mojo Brass Band

  • London
  • 4-8
  • (66)

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£1,640

Seren

  • Bedfordshire
  • 5-6
  • (69)

Think style, glitz and confidence - and every special request met - Seren have the thing that makes dance floors jump and feet frantically tap (even the feet of the tough-to-impress guests)

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from£1,225

The Different Lights

  • Liverpool
  • 4
  • (125)

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£2,150

The Soul Cats

  • London
  • 5-7
  • (111)

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.


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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 evening
  • A 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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. 
 

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.

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.

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. 


Top wedding band music genres

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Soul wedding bands

Soul, Motown, funk and R&B bands, playing everything from Marvin Gaye to Lizzo.

Wedding Jazz Bands for Hire

Jazz wedding bands

Swing, blues, dixieland or bebop – hire a jazz band for mellow background music or dancing.

Brass Band London

Brass wedding bands

We have oompah bands and dixieland bands as well as brass and drums bands for dancing.

Mumford Indie Folk Band Hire

Festival wedding bands

Hire an indie folk wedding band in the style of Mumford & Sons or The Lumineers.

Rock Pop Function Band Hire

Indie rock wedding bands

Rock, pop & indie bands playing upbeat anthems across all eras, to dance to.

Unusual Alternative Wedding Band Entertainment Hire

Alternative wedding bands

Alternative wedding bands and musicians to surprise and delight your guests

Acoustic Wedding Bands | Function Central

Acoustic wedding bands

Hire an acoustic wedding band for a more rustic vibe, or to keep noise levels under control in sound limited venues.

Wedding Reception Musicians for Hire

Wedding reception musicians

Background musicians for your drinks reception or breakfast, from acoustic duos to jazz, steel pan and classical.

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Find local wedding bands, UK wide

Function Central is the leading UK wedding band hire agency. Use the menu below to find outstanding local bands for weddings nationwide.

Hiring a local wedding band can save money on travel and accommodation costs.


Read reviews for our live wedding bands

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Wedding band music advice

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The easy way to hire UK wedding bands

  • Handpicked live wedding bands for hire, across the UK
  • Comprehensive booking contracts for your peace of mind
  • Expert advice on choosing wedding music bands
  • 24/7 emergency support and wedding band cover
  • Five-star rating on Trustpilot

Need background wedding music?

Wedding music isn’t just about the final party. If you're looking for background music to accompany your drinks reception or wedding meal, try our jazz bands, acoustic musicians or singers. Our steel pan bands are popular for outdoor receptions.

We can also provide wedding ceremony musicians such as harpists, string quartets or classical guitarists, for your bridal entrance, exit or the signing of the register.

If you've already hired a live band for your evening party, check whether they offer background music options. It'll save you the cost of booking a separate act. Read more about getting value from your wedding music band.

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