Band Booking FAQs

When do the band set up?

The average setup time for a band is about 90 minutes, so make sure that the venue/room you are using is free for this amount of time prior to their performance. For example, a performance starting at 8:30pm means the band will need to setup from around 7pm. Evening performances can be setup anytime after 6pm, while early setups (for example before a meal) may incur an 'early setup' charge to accommodate for the amount of time the band are 'on site'.

How long do the band play for?

Different bands have slightly different set-lengths, but a normal length of time you can expect from a band is 2 x 1 hour sets. Some bands can play longer than this (3 x 1 hours for example), but will incur an additional charge.

What's a 'normal' arrangement for a band at a wedding?

Our most common and effective arrangement is for the wedding breakfast to finish at around 7pm, for the room to be cleared and guests moved into a bar or reception area and the band to load, setup and soundcheck, and to be ready to play their sets anytime after 8:30pm. A normal finish time is midnight.

Can I choose the songs that the band will play?

We normally leave the overall set-list to the band themselves, as they often have pre-rehearsed changes between songs and generally know which songs go into which songs the best. However, you're welcome to make some suggestions, which will be passed to the band, and if you're booking for a wedding, some bands can often learn a song especially for your first dance.

Do the band provide a 'DJ' service?

All our bands are generally happy to allow their PA system to be used to play music through while they aren't playing. This means you don't have to shell out for another whole PA system and DJ, as the band can keep music flowing between and after their live sets, by using their iPod, MP3 player, CD player or laptop. You're also welcome to bring along your own CD mix-tape or iPod to put through the PA system.

How and who do we pay?

For our private clients (parties, weddings etc.) who aren't VAT registered, we allow you to pay the band directly, or you can pay the money into our account and we will pass it on to the band. An up-front fee is usually charged at the time of the booking and the remainder of the fee is due on the night. For corporate clients, an invoice will sometimes be issued by us after the event, or we may ask for a deposit.

I've booked the band. Who's my point of contact now?

It's still us. We're here to answer any queries you have between now and the date of your event. Just drop us an email or a phone call. About 1-2 weeks before the date of your event, we will usually provide you with an email address and phone number for the band.

Do bands have public liability insurance and PAT cover?

We only work with musicians and bands who have public liability insurance cover and also PAT electrical certification. If you book a band, it is the band's insurance and PAT which covers your event. We can usually provide copies in advance of an event, to satisfy the venue.

Which parts of the UK do you cover?

Although we started off primarily focusing on the Yorkshire and North West regions, we work with musicians and bands throughout the whole UK, from Newcastle and the North East, through Lancashire, Manchester, Cheshire, Staffordshire and the Midlands, down to London, Essex and the south coast.