7 Live Music Ideas for a Late Summer Garden Party

1. Dixieland jazz band

The uplifting sounds of dixieland music are perfectly suited to a summer garden gathering. Like steel bands, Dixieland musicians are acoustic and don't need a power supply, freeing them up to move from one spot to the next at the drop of a (straw) hat.

Check out The Slick City Jazz Stompers and The 12th Street Swingers, recently featured playing in the sun at this garden party.

If you're looking for more modern jazz, Midnight Blue's repertoire spans quirky takes on modern pop by the likes of Nirvana, Pharrell and Kings of Leon. They can also perform completely unplugged.

2. Steel pan band

Nothing says summer like the celebratory sound of a steel band. The association with carnival partying and dancing is undeniable, and if you want to put a smile on your guests' faces and see them moving to a meringue or a Marley classic, this is the way to go!

Two of our most popular steel bands are The Merry-Makers and The Steel Panthers, both providing incredibly upbeat and entertaining performances. No power supply is required, meaning they can perform anywhere in your garden. Having said that, direct sunlight can put the pans out of tune, so please find them a shady spot!

3. Singer guitarists and duos

If sing-a-long tunes that everyone knows are a must, a guitar vocalist is the perfect entertainment option for your garden party.

For a bit more rhythmic punch (without breaking the sound barrier and driving your neighbours crazy), consider a duo. Marcel & Matt have graced numerous festival-style outdoor knees-ups, as have Sean & Guy.

For a 4-piece rock & pop acoustic band complete with a roaming drummer, check out The Wandering Lights or Rewind.

Please be aware that line-ups featuring a vocalist may require access to a power supply (in order to power a small vocal PA), depending on the size of the event / how many guests you're expecting.

4. Brass band

For a fun-filled performance of lively, catchy pop tunes, consider a brass fusion band, combining traditional brass instruments with acoustic drum kit.

With no need for a power supply or a complicated set up, they're the perfect fuss-free musical option.

Enjoy a raucous, New Orleans vibe with Big Easy Brass Band, who love to roam and get your guests involved in performance, from a safe distance of course!

Drum n Brass play fun and upbeat versions of pop hits to tap your toes or dance to, while Street Beat Band offer the option of pop songs or oompah.

5. String trio or quartet

If you're looking for more formal summer garden party entertainment, a string trio or quartet will create an elegant, sophisticated ambience. Some of our customers' favourites are London-based The Clemenza String Ensemble or Sakura String Quartet up north.

String ensembles won't need a power supply, but be aware that sunlight and rain can seriously damage ancient instruments so some shelter (eg. a three-sided gazebo) is required.

6. Gypsy jazz or French musette

Gypsy Jazz and Hot Club style music will bring a sunny, bohemian spirit to your festivities. For foot-tapping finesse from duos to quartets, have a listen to Spirit of Django, The Smokin' Romas, and Gypsy Street.

For a traditional Parisian feel, book a band playing French musette and chansons. Vive La France! or Chansons de Paris combine accordion with, clarinets and other acoustic instruments.

Most acoustic line-ups shouldn't need power, allowing them to keep their distance from you and your guests.

7. Other Music

For something a little different, consider the unique, uplifting sound of ukulele music! Uke Party and Hats & Cockney Duo are both good value and fun options.

A Mariachi band can bring all the joy of a Mexican party straight to your garden! Check out The Mariachi Warriors, one of our finest.

For a Spanish vibe, book a flamenco guitarist or a group featuring traditional flamenco dancers.

For some historically-themed, socially-distanced entertainment, consider The Tudor Minstrel or The Medieval Stroller.

Need more advice? Give us a call on 0333 242 0560 or email info@functioncentral.co.uk and our live music booking experts will be happy to help.