11 Best Wedding Bands in Hampshire For 2024

Updated 7 October 2024
Reading time — 5 minutes
11 Best Wedding Bands in Hampshire For 2024

In this blog post, we'll list the 11 most popular wedding bands for hire in Hampshire on FixTheMusic, based on the number of their confirmed bookings for 2024 and 2025.

Hampshire is home to some of the finest cover bands in Europe...bands that perform regularly at high-end corporate events and celebrity weddings.

You'll see that there is a huge range of styles and that many of the cover bands offer something a bit different to make your wedding truly memorable

All of these bands perform sets for dancing, as well as chillout music if you require a background set, e.g. for an afternoon cocktail event.

Some of these wedding bands can also incorporate a horn section (trumpet and saxophone), as well as electric string instruments to add another dimension to weddings and events.

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Wedding bands on FixTheMusic have public liability insurance and PAT tested equipment.

FixTheMusic's cover bands perform in a variety of styles, from funk, blues, soul, acoustic, vintage and rock 'n' roll to R&B, Britpop, electro-swing and indie rock and pop covers. We also have a range of outstanding roaming bands, a particularly popular genre currently.

How we choose the best wedding bands in Hampshire

Every band on this list has been selected because they have the most bookings on our platform. The team at FixTheMusic invites only exceptional musicians to join the platform, so the Hampshire wedding bands highlighted here are truly the best of the best.

Each band featured on FixTheMusic undergoes rigorous evaluation, chosen for their exceptional musicianship, verified reviews from past couples, high-quality videos, and dedication to customer satisfaction. We update this list regularly as new bands rise through the ranks and existing bands evolve.

We really hope you enjoy using FixTheMusic. If you have any feedback for us, please get in touch. Otherwise, read more about FixTheMusic, browse our FAQs or read our blog to find helpful articles, research, insights, definitive guides and much more!

Check out our Instagram 📸 for videos and photos of our best party bands performing at real weddings, parties and events.

Here's the list of the 11 best Hampshire wedding bands for hire in 2024...

1. The Tourists
2. Scintillate
3. ROAMEO
4. The Nauticals
5. Fusion Girls
6. The Old School 90s Band
7. The Manhattans
8. Wandering Three
9. The Legends Collective
10. The Scene
11. Beats & Beyond

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So let's take a closer look at the most in-demand wedding bands in Hampshire this year...

1. The Tourists

Average booking price: £1,500 - £2,000 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK
⭐ 17 verified reviews

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Tourists ➡️

The Tourists are a supergroup of world-class musicians who met on the London music scene, all with vast experience playing weddings, and events and touring and recording with the world's biggest and best artists. From Glastonbury Festival to your party!

Our group of 7 top musicians are available as any combination of 3, 4 and 5-piece line-ups and is armed with an upbeat setlist of classic indie, pop and rock tunes to suit any event.

We look forward to partying with you throughout the UK very soon.

We're regularly booked to perform for weddings and events at Manchester Museum, Tall John's House in Brecon and Milton End Farm in Arlingham, Gloucestershire.

View The Tourists

You may have seen and heard us performing alongside Reef, Pixie Lott, Albert Lee, Smokie, Ronnie Wood (Rolling Stones), One Direction, James Morrison, Crystal Fighters, Gary Barlow, Nile Rodgers (Chic), Fatboy Slim, Willow Kayne, Carrie Underwood, Hannah Grace, Freya Ridings, Sigala, Oliver Heldens, Kit Trigg, The Lion King Musical, Dirty Dancing The Musical, Judge Jules, Andy Burrows (Razorlight), Jessie J and many, many more...!

View our list of the UK's best indie rock wedding bands ➡️

Here are just some of the locations where we have been booked by clients on FixTheMusic for weddings and events...

  • Cigarral de Las Mercedes, Spain
  • Mallorca, Spain
  • Manchester Museum
  • Milton End Farm, Gloucestershire
  • Stock Farm Barn, Altrincham
  • Hedsor House, Buckinghamshire
  • The Larrik, London
  • The Kingscote Barn, Tetbury
  • Tall John's House, Brecon, Wales
  • Moulton, Newmarket, Suffolk

So if you’re looking to hire one of London’s finest wedding & party bands, look no further than The Tourists and get in touch today!


2. Scintillate

Average booking price: £5,000 - £7,500 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of Scintillate ➡️

Scintillate are a luxury high-end function band with over 15 years of industry experience.

We perform at weddings, corporate events and private functions in the UK & across the globe.

From music selection and arrangements to performance and attire, everything about Scintillate oozes class and professionalism.

We aim to uplift your function by creating an incredible atmosphere to suit, with utmost elegance and sophistication.

Scintillate also offer a larger lineup to include full horn section for that extra wow factor at weddings and events.

Please take a look at our 2024 SET LIST

Scintillate are one of the most popular wedding bands so we recommend enquiring well in advance, especially if your event is on a Friday or Saturday between May and October (peak wedding season). Please consider a weekday or Sunday wedding so we can have availability!

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram 📸

We're regularly booked to perform for weddings and events at Beldi Country Club in Morocco, Rocabella Hotel in Santorini, Borgo Stomennano in Italy, Castell de Sant Marçal in Spain, Château Prieuré Marquet in France, Kilkea Castle Hotel & Golf Resort in Ireland and The Savoy Hotel in London.

We love a party. Playing music is what we live for, Scintillate are totally dedicated to helping create an event that you’ll never forget.

We play stunning renditions of all the biggest hits and play a plethora of genres; we spend tireless hours in the studio perfecting our own interpretations.

Scintillate have a vast repertoire which covers a wide variety of styles and genres such as Chart, Soul, Funk, Motown, RnB, Hip Hop, Garage and Swing, we can cater for all.

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Scintillate is predominantly the same band line-up at every event although we do have a pool of amazing like for like musicians to cover for any eventuality. The band's lead singer is Iddy Awan, one of the UK's top wedding singers.

All quotations are completely individual, dependent on performance times, distance of travel and any special requirements.

For an accurate quote please get in touch. We’d love to hear from you to discuss a package specifically tailored to your needs.

Weddings

As a luxury wedding band, Scintillate will work with you to tailor their set to your requirements & different line-ups can be booked for the ceremony, canapés, wedding breakfast, first dance and evening reception.

Scintillate create the perfect balance, setting tone and atmosphere that can be appreciated by all.

Here are just some of the locations where we have been booked by clients on FixTheMusic for weddings and events...

  • Rocabella Hotel, Santorini, Greece
  • Beldi Country Club, Morocco
  • Grand Convento di Amalfi, Italy
  • Dievole Wine Resort, Italy
  • Castell de Sant Marçal, Spain
  • Château Prieuré Marquet, France
  • Villa Corsini a Mezzomonte, Italy
  • Tenuta di Monaciano, Siena, Italy
  • Antica Fattoria di Paterno, Italy
  • Hotel Mediterraneo, Sorrento, Italy
  • Villa Miani, Rome, Italy
  • Borgo Stomennano, Siena, Italy
  • Finca Son Mir, Palma, Mallorca
  • Castello Monaci, Puglia, Italy
  • Savoy Hotel, Strand, London, UK
  • La Bastide de Gordes, France
  • Hotel Villa Cimbrone, Ravello, Italy
  • Hotel Xereca, Puig d'en Valls, Spain
  • Domaine de Primard, France
  • Halkidiki, Greece
  • San Miguel de Salinas, Spain
  • Chania, Crete, Greece
  • Corinthia Hotel, Whitehall Place
  • Son Termes, Bunyola, Mallorca
  • Cabanas Velhas Beach, Portugal
  • La Centenaria, Barcelona, Spain
  • Monte Pego, Spain
  • Carlowrie Castle, Edinburgh, UK
  • Château de Malliac, Montréal, France
  • San Roque Club, Spain
  • Dourakis Winery, Crete, Greece
  • Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel
  • Galu Seaside, Larnaca, Cyprus
  • Island Art and Taste, Athens, Greece
  • Château De Saint-Martory, France
  • Santana Beach Club, Naxos

Scintillate are widely considered to be one of the UK's best wedding bands. Although based in London, the band performs across the world at luxury destination weddings, working with top wedding and event planners. 

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram 📸

Please check out our website for more information.

The band is in high demand with only a few dates still available in 2024 and 2025. Booking early is advised!


3. ROAMEO

Average booking price: £4,674 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK
⭐ 62 verified reviews

View more videos and read verified reviews of ROAMEO ➡️

ROAMEO, previously known as NOMAD, is a carefully sculpted, slick and totally innovative music entertainment trio and quartet.

The outfit was formed to create something unique for the entertainment world, which brought to life a vision of a small, dapper roaming band, able to deliver a big dance floor sound, while weaving through rooms, interacting with guests.

We're regularly booked to perform for weddings and events at Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah Hotel in Egypt, Borgo Sant'Ambrogio in Italy, Sky Garden in London and La Baronía in Barcelona, Spain.

View ROAMEO

ROAMEO are one of the UK's only electric / amplified roaming wedding bands. This is made possible by the unique addition of a musically involved sound engineer, who works wizardry with wireless technology. Wow.

View our complete list of UK roaming bands ➡️

ROAMEO's band members are all seasoned entertainers from established backgrounds - sharp presentation and honed audience-sensitive charm set this outfit well apart from the rest. Their set is full of cool hits, often put together in a clever mashup.

Previous clients include Facebook, Google, Manchester United Football Club, Ted Baker, Coca Cola and Hampton Court Palace, amongst many other prestigious organisations and venues.

ROAMEO are one of our most popular non-cheesy wedding bands. Watch our YouTube video of The Top 8 Best Non Cheesy Wedding Bands UK For 2024 ➡️

We've split up into chapters so you can easily navigate:

The band is highly experienced at performing outside the UK. They have recently travelled to and have upcoming events in Malta, France, Italy, Spain, Egypt, Greece and Portugal. The band also recently performed at the Singapore Grand Prix.

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Their performance at a destination wedding in Barcelona was recently featured as a real wedding in Whimsical Wonderland Weddings.

Here are just some of the locations where we have been booked by clients on FixTheMusic for weddings and events...

  • DRIFT Beach Club, Dubai
  • Domaine de Canaille, Cassis, France
  • Forte Dei Marmi, Italy
  • Marrakech, Morocco
  • Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah Hotel, Egypt
  • Nobu Hotel, Portman Square, London
  • La Baronía, Barcelona, Spain
  • Fangar Vell, Campanet, Mallorca
  • Finca La Donaira, Cadiz, Spain
  • Finca Son Berga Eventos, Alaro, Mallorca
  • CAVO VENTUS VILLA, Santorini
  • Ocean Club Marbella
  • Locanda in Tuscany, Siena, Italy
  • Finca Comassema, Mallorca
  • Finca Son Termes, Mallorca
  • Finca Biniorella, Andratx, Mallorca
  • Skyfall Cocktail Club, Barcelona
  • Castell d´Empordà, Girona, Spain
  • Camp Nou, C. d'Arístides Maillol, Barcelona
  • L'Hôtel du Collectionneur, Paris
  • Masseria Amastuola Wine Resort, Italy
  • Vila Monte Farm House
  • Finca la Concepción, Marbella, Spain
  • La Torre del Visco, Spain
  • The Waldorf Hilton, Aldwych, London, UK
  • Borgo Sant'Ambrogio, Pienza, Italy
  • Finca Es Cabàs, Mallorca
  • La Garriga de Castelladral, Spain
  • Son Mir, Palma, Mallorca, Spain
  • SON DOBLONS, Mallorca, Spain
  • Fira de Barcelona, Montjuïc
  • Xalet del Nin, Vilanova i la Geltrú
  • Hostal de La Gavina, Girona
  • Venta de Aires, Toledo
  • Mas Santo, Cunit, Spain
  • Finca Son Sampol, Mallorca
  • Centre de Convencions Barcelona
  • Casa Fèlix, Olivella, Spain
  • Villa Es Colls, Mallorca, Spain

So if you want the finest pop covers roaming band London has to offer, get in touch with ROAMEO.

Duo Option

If you like the look of ROAMEO, but 4 musicians stretches the budget, we have just released a condensed duo version: Players Lite. Led by a singer or singer/guitarist and supported by the drummer who has all the other instruments stored in his live drum machine, triggered on the fly. All the sound, sass, mobility and interaction of the full complement - just smaller. Sax or an extra singer can be added.

We are forever gauging dance floors around the world and keeping an ear to the ground for the freshest party tunes. The sample set list provided here shows examples of places we like to go.

Please note that ROAMEO operates as a family of no-compromise musicians, who are the best in London for this show and at the very top of their game. This means that the band may not have all members from promotional footage. The set list is indicative only and will vary according to the singer.


4. The Nauticals

Average booking price: £2,758 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Nauticals ➡️

The Nauticals are a 4 piece rock and pop covers band consisting of both male and female lead vocals.

Their female singer also plays saxophone which means she can steal the show by ripping into some of the most famous sax solos of all time without the need of backing tracks.

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5. Fusion Girls

Average booking price: £2,778 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of Fusion Girls ➡️

Fusion Girls are a unique trio of DJ mixing, light-up sax & percussion, available for events in the UK and worldwide.

Their unique combination of funky, soulful house mixes tied with jazzy sax grooves and an uber cool feel of percussion beats have created a sound like no other, that people just can’t help but dance to!

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6. The Old School 90s Band

Average booking price: £2,632 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Old School 90s Band ➡️

The Old School 90s Band bring the best of 1990s pop, dance, RnB and hip hop to your party, event or wedding.

Their line up of highly experienced professional musicians have all toured internationally as well as across the UK. They faithfully recreate the spirit of the 90s. Get your glow sticks ready!

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7. The Manhattans

Average booking price: £2,956 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Manhattans ➡️

The Manhattans are a high-energy pop & rock covers band based in London and Hertfordshire.

Having supported huge names including Bruce Springsteen at Hyde Park and headlined Trafalgar Square as part of the Closing Paralympic Celebrations, the band caught the attention of promoters in the United States.

Since then the band have been touring across the US supporting bands like Fuel and Alien Ant Farm.


8. Wandering Three

Average booking price: £1,989 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of Wandering Three ➡️

Wandering Three are London’s fresh, high-energy acoustic roaming band.

With no need for a PA, Wandering Three take no time to set up and can perform anywhere you need. They can roam around the guests at your event, entertaining them in small groups and playing their requests.

Or show them a stage and they'll fiddle the house down!

View our complete list of UK roaming bands ➡️

Our highly experienced globetrotting band members have performed in 6 continents. We’ve played everywhere from the French Alps to the Yasawa Islands in Fiji… and from Blackpool to Bournemouth, gracing the stages of the Royal Albert Hall, Shakespeare’s Globe, Walt Disney Hall (LA) and Carnegie Hall (NYC).

We’ve shared stages with Sting, McFly, Bill Bailey, Elbow, Bjork, Dizzee Rascal, James Morrison and Calvin Harris. We’ve performed in West End shows including Mamma Mia!, Dirty Dancing, Jersey Boys, Motown and School of Rock.

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We’ve won prime time TV competitions in UK and France (Stars in Their Eyes and Le Cover), as well as appeared on the BBC Proms and Classical Brit Awards.

We’ve entertained corporate clients at Microsoft, Merrill Lynch Bank Of America and Amstel. We’re ready to make your event amazing… any time, any place.

Wandering Three were recently booked on FixTheMusic to entertain guests at a Facebook event at BOZAR in Brussels, Belgium.

Here are just some of the locations where we have been booked by clients on FixTheMusic for weddings and events...

  • Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort
  • Château Rigaud, France
  • 11 Downing Street, London
  • Hotel Croatia Cavtat, Dubrovnik
  • The Goring Hotel, Beeston Place
  • The Groucho Club
  • Mykonos, Greece
  • Areias do Seixo Hotel, Portugal
  • Wilderness Reserve, Saxmundham
  • Brussels, Belgium
  • Hedsor House, Taplow, Bourne End
  • Port de Pollença, Spain
  • Walltree House Farm, Hinton Airfield
  • The Light Bar & Dining, Shoreditch
  • Eastwell Manor Champneys Hotel
  • Hackney Town Hall
  • The Hackney, 503 Hackney Road
  • Newland Hall Fishery, Chelmsford
  • Kew Gardens, Richmond, UK
  • Syrencot House, Figheldean
  • The Ferry House, Sheerness, Kent
  • The Depot, North Road, London
  • Bush House, Aldwych, London
  • The Vines of Rochester, UK
  • Asylum Chapel, London
  • Primrose Hill Farm, Banbury, UK
  • Temple Guiting Manor and Barns
  • Crondon Park, Stock, Ingatestone
  • Willow Grange Farm, Cambridge
  • Pelham House, Lewes
  • The Waterway Restaurant, Warwick Avenue
  • Fidelio Cafe, Clerkenwell Road
  • Nursted Barns, Buriton, Hampshire
  • Gray's Inn, London, UK
  • Upthorpe Wood, Bury Saint Edmunds
  • Barnsley House, Cirencester, UK

So if you're looking to hire the finest acoustic roaming band London has to offer, get in touch with Wandering Three.

In the COVID era, we have become very popular for virtual online corporate events and parties. The links below will take you to videos of our performance for Newydd Housing Association on 11 December 2020...

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram 📸

Please check out our website for more information.


9. The Legends Collective

Average booking price: £5,000 - £10,000 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Legends Collective ➡️

This stunning 5-15 piece band provides a world-class spectacle that will absolutely floor your guests from start to finish.

Week in week out they perform a hit-filled repertoire that flows with the fluidity of a DJ set, but with the punch of Beyoncé’s live band.

Their impressive set list includes 200+ bangers ranging from R&B throwbacks, Garage classics, Ibiza anthems all the way to your favourite old school soul and Motown!

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10. The Scene

Average booking price: £1,500 - £2,500 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Scene ➡️

The Scene are professional Mumford style wedding band based in London

They have ​been​ ​playing​ ​together​ ​since​ ​2011.​ ​Since​ ​the​ ​beginning,​ ​there​ ​has​ ​always been​ ​one​ ​ambition...to​ ​entertain!

They offer a quartet of 2 guitars, double bass, drums and 3 part harmonies with the addition of slide guitar to recreate a unique Americana style.

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11. Beats & Beyond

Average booking price: £2,293 (as of October 2024)
Location: Hampshire & London, UK
⭐ 16 verified reviews

View more videos and read verified reviews of Beats & Beyond ➡️

If you are looking to book a live band that will blow you away with an authentic high-energy live show, one that will guarantee you and your guests don't leave the dance floor all night, then Beats & Beyond are the band for you!

With over 10 years in the event business ranging from luxury weddings, large corporate events and exclusive private parties.

This incredible band perform live covers from the ages with an electrifying performance from a rock fused horn section, blistering sax solos, face melting guitar solos all fronted by sensational male and female vocals.

Beats & Beyond are available as a 4 – 9 piece line up depending on your event size.

We're regularly booked to perform for weddings and events at Gate Street Barn in Guildford, Hedsor House in Bourne End and Westerham Golf Club in Kent.

View Beats & Beyond

With over 500+ successful events under their belt, Beats & Beyond have performed all over the world in locations such as Dubai, Italy, Spain, Ireland and France.

As musicians they have worked with some of the biggest names in the business and have performed at venues such as Hammersmith Apollo, Birmingham NIA, Cardiff Motorpoint Arena, Isle Of Wight Festival + 100's more.

Beats & Beyond have become one of the most sought after wedding & corporate bands in the industry, they are the perfect choice for luxury entertainment in the UK and internationally.

The band also have the option to upgrade to a show band with extra vocalists, percussion and string section.

Here are just some of the locations where we have been booked by clients on FixTheMusic for weddings and events...

  • Hedsor House, Buckinghamshire
  • Carousel, Charlotte Street, London
  • Gate Street Barn, Guildford
  • Westerham Golf Club, Kent
  • Northbrook Park, Farnham, UK
  • West Green House Garden, Hook
  • Southdowns Manor, Petersfield
  • St Albans, UK

So if you're after the finest cover band to hire in London for your wedding or corporate event, get in touch with Beats & Beyond.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram 📸

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At FixTheMusic, we supply bands for hundreds of weddings and events in Hampshire each year. From our experience and having spoken to our wedding couples and bands, we've put together a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about hiring a wedding band in Hampshire.

How much does a wedding band cost in Hampshire?

For 2024, the average cost of a wedding band in Hampshire is £2,875. This is based on a local 4-piece band performing 2 x 60 minute sets and providing their own PA system and lighting. Larger bands can cost much more (between £3,000 - £8,000) and some smaller groups will be cheaper.

How early should I book the band?

You should aim to book your band as soon as possible. Most of our best wedding bands have bookings at least two years in advance. If your wedding is on a Saturday in May, June, July, August or September, you should really be looking to book at least a year in advance of your date. This is because most weddings fall on a Saturday during summer so our bands receive the most enquiries for these days. That said, there are more and more weddings taking place on Sundays and mid-week (especially on Thursdays and Fridays) so it’s best not to wait too long before locking down your band.

Can I see the band perform live before I book?

Usually it’s not possible to see the band live. Most professional bands perform at private events only, such as weddings and corporate events. It’s not usually possible for the bands to allow potential clients into these venues to watch them perform. It is occasionally possible so there’s no harm in asking. And sometimes wedding bands will do the odd gig at a pub or festival that’s open to the public.

How long do Hampshire wedding bands perform for?

Most wedding bands play 2 x 45 minute or 2 x 1 hour live sets at weddings. If you'd like your wedding band to perform for longer, just ask the band. It's usually possible but they might charge a bit extra.

What happens between and after the band’s live sets?

Most wedding bands provide a “laptop DJ” service. This isn’t the same as providing the service of a professional DJ who reads the room and adapts to the feel on the night. Instead, they will have a playlist (usually on something like Spotify or iTunes) that they play out of their PA system.

Can I choose the music they play in between and after their live sets?

Yes, usually you can send the band a list of requests before the wedding and the band will download them onto their laptop or device, ready to play on the night. Alternatively, you can compile a playlist and bring your own device to plug into the band’s PA system.

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What songs do wedding bands play?

Most bands have a repertoire of songs that they perform regularly at weddings. This will be a tried-and-tested playlist that they know works well at weddings: it appeals to guests of all ages and keeps people on the dance floor.

Will the band learn my first dance song?

Most bands will be delighted to learn your first dance song and perform it live for you on your wedding night. If it doesn’t fit the band’s style (e.g. if your first dance song is a jazz song, but you’ve booked an indie-rock band), then they might suggest you use the recorded version of the song and the band will play this out of their PA system. Some bands might charge a bit extra (often around £150) to learn a new song to cover rehearsal time.

Can I give a list of songs to the band to play at my wedding?

Most bands will usually learn one song for your wedding that isn’t already in their setlist. Some bands will offer to learn 2 or 3 new songs, but in our experience they are rarely able to learn more than this. It can be very time consuming for the band to learn and rehearse new songs, and especially so for singers to learn all the new lyrics.

Can I indicate my song preferences to the band?

Most bands will be happy for you to indicate which songs from their set list you dislike and don’t want them to play, and songs that you like and absolutely want them to play on the night. The band will usually then build their setlist around these preferences.

What time do wedding bands normally arrive at the venue?

Most bands aim to arrive at around 5pm to be ready to play by 7pm. During this time they will set up their equipment and carry out a sound check, essential to making sure the volume of the band is appropriate to your venue and that any sound / noise limiters are taken into account.

Can the band turn up earlier than that?

Yes, most bands will be happy to turn up earlier than 5pm, but you should expect to pay them for the extra time. A lot of wedding couples worry about the band setting up while guests are at the venue. Bands with lots of experience of weddings should be able to set up discreetly and without making too much noise and mess. The noisiest part is when they have to carry out the sound check, but this should only last about 15 - 30 minutes. Rather than asking the entire band to turn up early, it’s often more cost-effective for one or two band members to arrive in advance to unload most of the equipment and get set up, which saves having to pay an extra fee for every band member.

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What time do wedding bands normally finish?

Most bands expect to finish by midnight. This suits most weddings as the majority of UK venues require live music to stop by this time.

Can I ask the band to stay later than midnight?

Yes, but bands will normally charge a slightly higher fee to finish later than midnight.

Can I use the band’s PA system after midnight?

Usually, yes. Though this will also attract a slightly higher fee, as it means that at least one band member has to wait until the end of the party to pack up the PA system and head home. Some band members might be a couple of hours’ drive away from your venue, so finishing at 1am means they won’t arrive home until 3am or 4am.

Do wedding bands bring their own sound equipment and instruments?

Yes. Professional wedding bands will bring their own equipment. This includes a PA system, mixing desk, some basic lighting for the dance floor and their own instruments. If you are planning a particularly large wedding with hundreds of guests, you might consider hiring in a larger PA system and more lighting.

Do wedding bands need a stage to perform on?

No. Most bands are happy to perform without a stage, though it can look special if you can offer them a stage to perform on.

If I do provide a stage for my wedding band, how much space will the band need?

This will depend on the size of the band of course, but to give you a rough idea, a 4-piece band would usually need at least 5m x 4m. This is to provide room for not only the band members themselves, but also their instruments (keyboards and drum kits take up quite a bit of space) and other things like speakers and a mixing desk.

Can I or my guests play with the band?

If you ask the band in advance, most will be happy to allow you or one of your guests to sing or play along with them for one or two songs. We always advise checking this with your band first. Some bands’ public liability insurance doesn’t allow wedding bands to permit guests to use their instruments or equipment.

Do I need to hire a DJ as well as a wedding band?

Most bands will provide pre-recorded playlists between and after their live sets, so your entire evening will be covered. However, if you want a professional DJ who will adapt his music choices on the night and interact with guests, then it’s better to hire a DJ as well.

If I do hire a separate DJ, can the band and DJ share equipment?

Bands and DJs will often share the same PA system, as it can look cluttered to have two sets of speakers around the dance floor. However, you’ll need to discuss this with both the DJ and band before the event to check the equipment suits everyone’s requirements and that everyone is happy to share. One problem can arise when the DJ is booked to provide music into the small hours, but the band is to finish at 11pm. In this case, it would make more sense for the band to use the DJ’s equipment to save the band having to wait until the DJ had finished his set.

Do I need to provide anything for my wedding band?

Professional wedding bands will bring all their own technical equipment and instruments. However, most will expect to be provided with a hot meal each and soft drinks.The musicians will probably have left their homes around lunchtime to arrive at your venue in good time to set up and soundcheck. It can be a long day for them and they will be much more energetic on stage if they’ve had a good meal and refreshments before performing for you. The bands won’t expect to be given the same meal as you provide for your guests. Most wedding venues have an option you can purchase in advance for your suppliers or you can give the musicians access to your buffet if you’re having one.

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Will the band members be the same as the ones I’ve seen in their videos?

Not always. Most professional bands will have a core group that plays at the majority of weddings they are booked for. However, they will also have a group of deputies (or “deps” as they are known in the industry) that they call upon frequently to cover for band members. This is a standard and essential practice in the music industry. Most musicians work as freelancers, meaning they might work for different function bands or tour with famous pop groups for example. Being able to draw upon a deputy musician to cover a band member who is unavailable (or ill) means the rest of the band can still work.

What do wedding bands wear?

You should get a good idea of what the band wears from their videos online. Most will opt for a smart shirt, but if you have a particular theme or any requests, let them know well in advance. For example, if you’re having an 80s style wedding, you might want to check if the band could wear appropriate clothing to match!

Will the band need parking spaces?

Most bands will arrive by car as it’s the easiest way for them to bring their equipment and instruments. Having 1 or 2 parking spaces available for them to use that are close to the venue will be appreciated by the musicians.

My venue has a sound limiter. Is that a problem?

Some wedding venues have what’s known as a sound or noise limiter installed. This is particularly the case with venues in built-up areas in cities or towns or where the owners have to be careful not to damage the building (e.g. a National Trust or English Heritage property). Most professional wedding bands are experienced at adapting their performance to the sound limit in place. You should make your band aware of this in good time before your event, as it might mean they need to bring an electric drum kit. Some bands might even refuse to play at venues with sound limiters in place. You can read more on our guide to sound limiters at wedding venues.

My wedding venue says the band needs to hold Public Liability Insurance (PLI). What is PLI?

Most wedding venues in the UK require bands performing there to hold valid Public Liability Insurance (PLI). PLI provides protection from the financial consequences of legal action and compensation claims if anyone is injured or any property is damaged during the wedding. Your wedding venue will often ask the band to provide a certificate to show they hold up-to-date public liability insurance in advance of the wedding. Membership of organisations such as the Musicians Union usually comes with PLI included. Read more on our guide to PLI.

Do wedding bands need PAT-certified equipment?

PAT stands for portable appliance testing. Most wedding venues will require your band to produce evidence that their equipment has been PAT-certified. This means that it has been tested to ensure it is safe to use. If your band can’t produce valid PLI and PAT certificates, you might question whether they are a professional band, as all full-time bands will have these documents ready to send to venues. Read more on our guide to Portable Appliance Testing (PAT).

Can wedding bands play outside?

If you’re getting married in the UK, it’s a good idea to make the most of the summer months and have as much of your wedding outside if possible. That said, the British weather isn’t the most reliable – so whilst many bands will be happy to play outside in principle, they will always require access to a shelter from the elements, whether that’s strong sunlight or rain. Musicians’ instruments can be worth thousands of pounds and a small amount of water damage can have a devastating impact on the instrument.

Do I need a contract with my wedding band?

The most secure way to book a band is to do so via FixTheMusic. All bookings are governed by the agreement on our website, which is based on the UK Musicians Union standard contract and amended by the particular details that you agree with your band by email (date, venue etc.). The contract provides protection to both parties.

How do I find a band for my wedding in Hampshire?

The best option is to submit an enquiry on FixTheMusic. The best bands will have the most limited availability, so the solution is to submit details of your event on our enquiry form to receive offers from available bands, after which you can be in direct contact with them and book your favourite band for free on our site. Furthermore, we curate our selection of bands so you will only receive quotes from top-quality UK acts and musicians

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Do wedding bands play during dinner?

If you have your heart set on the wedding band playing during dinner (often called the wedding breakfast), then by all means ask them if they can. You could opt for your wedding band to provide some lighter, instrumental background music (for example an acoustic or jazz set) during the dinner, though they will charge extra for this. Another popular option during the wedding meal is an acoustic roaming set, with the band weaving between your guests, providing something unique and a real talking point!


We hope you've enjoyed reading this list of the best wedding bands Hampshire has to offer in 2024.

FixTheMusic is a one-stop shop for booking outstanding professional musicians – and it's completely free for you to use.

Fill in the enquiry form to receive offers directly from hand-picked musicians. Once you've confirmed details with your preferred act, book and pay securely through our secure online checkout.

Adam is a co-founder of FixTheMusic and works on everything from copywriting and marketing to design and user experience. He studied Music at Cambridge University. Adam is a keen pianist, and also learned cello and trumpet from an early age.
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