The Top 11 Best Wedding Bands in Scotland (With Prices)

29 NOVEMBER 2020 (Updated 17 APRIL 2023)
Blog post by Adam Southall
Estimated read time: 3 minutes

In this blog post, we'll list the 11 most popular wedding bands for hire in Scotland on FixTheMusic, based on the number of their confirmed bookings in 2023 and 2024.

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

Browse Scotland Wedding Bands

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, trombone, sax player etc.), as well as electric string instruments to add another dimension to weddings and events.

We work with Scotland's best wedding bands with saxophone, including The Scottish Soul Collective, as well as the country's finest alternative wedding bands (such as Hup and Banjo Embargo).

You'll also find Scotland's top rock wedding bands, such as The Motherships.

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These wedding band recommendations are based on the number of bookings they have received from real wedding couples in Scotland.

View our complete list of outstanding wedding bands in Scotland ➡️

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. They are available throughout Scotland, including in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perthshire, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, Stirling and St Andrews.

Here's the list of the 11 best wedding bands in Scotland for 2023...

1. The Scottish Soul Collective
2. Northern Star Showband
3. Circassian Ceilidh Band
4. The Motherships
5. Ceilidh Fire
6. Ceilidh Storm
7. Banjo Embargo
8. Hup
9. The Jukebox Swing Band
10. Seafolk Ceilidh Band
11. Sound Castle

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

Receive quotes from Scotland wedding bands

1. The Scottish Soul Collective
Average booking price: £2,780 (as of April 2023)
Location: Glasgow, Scotland

The Scottish Soul Collective are a first-class 2 to 11 piece soul band specialising in high energy music for weddings, corporate events and private parties.

With no event too big or too small, the band always brings the party and packs the dance floor!

The Scottish Soul Collective is widely considered to be the best soul wedding band in Scotland.

Based in Glasgow, The Scottish Soul Collective is composed of a group of inspirational musicians and skilful performers and singers from across the UK. The artists behind The Scottish Soul Collective have earned their reputations as the best in the business and have over 200 years of combined performance experience.

With a huge repertoire list and fantastic arrangements, we perform a unique mix of genres and songs, all of which can be tailored to meet the requirements of you and your guests.

We want to contribute towards making your event as unique and unforgettable as possible so get in touch now to discuss enquiries and bookings.

So if you're looking to hire the finest soul and Motown wedding band Glasgow and Scotland has to offer, get in touch with The Scottish Soul Collective.

The band have performed all over the world and bring their vast musical experience to every performance.

With all their own equipment and a huge catalogue of songs suitable for any occasion, The Scottish Soul Collective will ensure your night runs smoothly and create a set list designed to keep your dance floor full ensuring that any event is a huge success.

The Scottish Soul Collective perform at all events, be it weddings, office parties, corporate events, private parties, they have it all covered.

Every event is seen as being unique and is approached in that way, guaranteeing that the music performed and running of your night is a success.

The Scottish Soul Collective tailor every single performance to the client's needs, working as closely as possible to ensure that every event is stress-free and memorable for all the right reasons.

The Scottish Soul Collective perform music from a huge and ever-expanding catalogue of songs ranging from funk, soul and Motown, through to jazz, pop and rock.

They understand the importance of having the right songs performed at your event and tailor their set with that in mind. The Scottish Soul Collective can perform any piece of music and are happy to arrange music for your event which may not be in their repertoire.

The band can also tailor their band size to meet your needs and understand you may not have space or the budget for a full 11 piece showband. Percussion can be added to any of their line-ups – and this option is highly recommended. If you have a preference for a male singer or female singer (or both male and female vocals!), then just let the band know at the time of booking.

The Scottish Soul Collective also perform as a 7 piece, a 9 piece and 11 piece.

The band is also available to perform Jazz sets as a trio, quartet or quintet if you require music for canapes, wedding ceremonies or champagne receptions.

The Scottish Soul Collective bring in all their own equipment and sound system so once you've booked the band, decided on what music you want and when you want the band to perform there is nothing to worry about and they will take care of the rest.

For weddings, the band usually provides 3 x 1 hour sets between 7pm and 12 midnight. They can also provide a short ceilidh set.

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

Archerfield Links, North Berwick, UK
The Balmoral, Princes Street, Edinburgh, UK
Myres Castle, Station Rd, Cupar
Castle Douglas, GG's Yard, Gatehouse of Fleet, Scotland
Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh
Kirknewton House Stables, UK
Dundas Castle, South Queensferry
Tornaveen Hall, Banchory
The Cruin, Arden, Scotland
Boturich Castle, Balloch, Alexandria, Scotland
Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, St Andrews, UK
Hopetoun House, South Queensferry, Scotland
Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar, Ballater, UK
Carrick Castle Estate, Cairndow, Scotland
Monachyle Mhor Hotel, Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, UK
Archerfield Walled Garden, Dirleton, North Berwick, UK
Pollokshields Burgh Hall, Glencairn Drive, Glasgow
Lochgreen House Hotel & Spa, Troon, Scotland
Mabie House Hotel, Dumfries, Scotland
Wedderlie House, Gordon
Hilton Glasgow Grosvenor
Cornhill Castle Hotel, Biggar
Roodlea Barn, Ayr, UK
Fairmont Hotel, St Andrews
Mansfield Traquair, Edinburgh
Kinkell Byre, St Andrews, UK
Shieldhill Castle Hotel, Biggar, UK
Mar Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa Resort, Bishopton, Scotland
Barnbougle Castle, South Queensferry, UK
Newton Hall, High Newton-by-the-Sea, Alnwick, UK
Linlithgow Burgh Halls, West Lothian, Scotland
Seamill Hydro Hotel, Ardrossan Road, West Kilbride, UK
Loch Lomond Arms, Main Road, Luss, Scotland
Brig o'Doon House Hotel, Alloway, Ayr, Scotland
Òran Mór, Byres Road, Glasgow, UK
Stirling County Rugby Football Club, Scotland
Carnoustie, UK
Cameron House, Alexandria, UK
Radisson Blu Hotel, Argyle Street, Glasgow
Raemoir House, Banchory, UK
Boclair House Hotel, Milngavie Road, Bearsden, Glasgow
GG's Yard, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas
Logic Country House
Cardney Steading
Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course, Inverurie
Cambo Estate, Kingsbarns, St Andrews
Drumtochty Castle
Dunglass Estate
Falside Mill, Kingsbarns, St Andrews
Auchenblae, Laurencekirk, Scotland
Stoneymeadow Road, Glasgow
Carlowrie Castle, Bridge Rd, Kirkliston, Edinburgh, UK
Fife, Scotland, UK
The Cow Shed, Crail
Broxmouth Park, Dunbar, UK
High Wards Estate, Gartocharn
Windermere, UK
Perth, Scotland
Invergowrie, Dundee
Bowness-on-Windermere, UK
Pitlochry, Scotland

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Scottish Soul Collective ➡️

2. Northern Star Showband
Average booking price: £4,467 (as of April 2023)
Location: Edinburgh & Newcastle

Northern Star Showband play for clients in and around Northumberland and across the whole of the North of England, Scotland and the wider UK!

Northern Star Showband consists of a collection of top session musicians all based in the Newcastle area.

Each member of Northern Star Showband has been specially selected for their area of expertise and style and together they are by far the coolest, funkiest and freshest party band available to hire today.

Please take a look at our 2023 SET LIST

Northern Star Showband are fully self-sufficient providing your event with everything from a quality PA system, lighting rig, dedicated sound and lighting engineer on every event.

Available from a 6 to 11 piece, our party band perform dance floor classics from the funk, soul and Motown era, with a sprinkling of modern day hits for good measure.

Mix this with the band's vast musical ability, performance experience and showmanship and you have the perfect recipe to get your event grooving from the first note to the last!

They can play mixed party music before between and after live sets with the option of both formal and informal stage wear. Set times consist of 2 x 1 hours or 3 x 40 minutes

Northern Star Showband perform the best Funk, Soul and pop hits from the last five decades from artists such as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Beyonce, Curtis Mayfield, Aretha Franklin, Maroon 5, Rihanna, Jamiroquai, Taio Cruz, Jesse J, Chaka Khan, Amy Winehouse and James Brown to name a few.

Northern Star Showband pride themselves on recreating authentic and accurate renditions of their repertoire and a have been told in the past that they sound even better than the original artists!

Band line-up options

6 piece band – The line up would include 2 singers, 1 male and 1 female, drums, guitar, bass and keyboards.

7 piece band – The line up would include 2 singers, 1 male and 1 female, drums, guitar, bass, keyboards and saxophone.

8 piece band – The line up would include 2 singers, 1 male and 1 female, drums, guitar, bass, keyboards, saxophone and trumpet.

9 piece band – The line up would include 3 singers, 1 male and 2 female, drums, guitar, bass, keyboards, saxophone and trumpet – OR the band can have 3 brass by adding in a trombone and just have 2 singers.

10 piece band – The line up would include 3 singers, 1 male and 2 female, drums, guitar, bass, saxophone, trumpet and trombone.

11 piece band – The line up would include 3 singers, 1 male and 2 female, drums, guitar, bass, keyboards, saxophone, trumpet, trombone player and second saxophone making a 4 piece brass section.

View more videos and read verified reviews of Northern Star Showband ➡️

3. Circassian Ceilidh Band
Average booking price: £1,615 (as of April 2023)
Location: Glasgow, Scotland

Formed in 2015, Circassian Ceilidh Band are a new and exciting ceilidh covers group, guaranteed to give you a great evening.

The band is available to play at weddings, functions, birthday parties and any other event you might think of!

They cater for all abilities of dancer and all of the band members are experienced dance callers.

Alongside playing for dancing they can also provide a singer, performance sets, background music, a wedding piper and a DJ set.

A typical evening running order could consist of: 1x hour of ceilidh dances, 30 mins of covers (traditional and popular songs), 30 mins DJ set, 1x hour of ceilidh dances.

View our list of the UK's best ceilidh bands ➡️

The band are more than happy to tailor the event to suit your needs and all times and running orders are completely flexible. Circassian Ceilidh Band will provide a full PA system for your event and are happy to provide Public Liability insurance documents as required.

Our piper is available to add a further Scottish touch to your event. Typical duties for a piper include piping at wedding ceremonies and receptions, piping and addressing the haggis at Burns Suppers and performing outside the venue of an event for guests arriving.

To add an extra special touch to your event, Circassian can compose a tune specific to your wishes. This is becoming increasingly popular as a first dance option for wedding parties.

Our core members feature some of Scotland's finest musicians. Ross (Pipes/Vocals) is Pipe Major of the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland. Robbie (Fiddle) studies at the prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Craig (Guitar) is a winner of both the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award and a Celtic Connections Danny Kyle Award.

Based in Glasgow, Circassian Ceilidh Band are available to perform throughout Scotland and are frequently booked for events in Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and Inverness.

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

Romantik Parkhotel Wasserburg Anholt, Isselburg
Dalhousie Castle Hotel, Bonnyrigg, UK
Fort George, Ardersier, Inverness, UK
Tullibole Castle, Crook of Devon, Kinross, UK
Pencaitland, Tranent, UK
Ballogie House, Aboyne, UK
Borthwick Castle, North Middleton, Gorebridge
The Abercairny Estates, Crieff, UK
GRANGEFIELDS, Long Lane, Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Òran Mór, Byres Road, Glasgow, Scotland
The Coos Cathedral, Aboyne, UK
Branxholm Park, Hawick
Crossbasket Castle, Stoneymeadow Road, East Kilbride
Sligachan, Isle of Skye, Scotland
GG's Yard, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas, UK
Primrose Hill Farm, Banbury, UK
Dalmeny Park House Hotel, Glasgow, UK
Sherbrooke Castle Hotel, Pollokshields, Glasgow
Rufflets Hotel, Strathkinness Low Road, St Andrews
Dumfries House, Cumnock
Old Swinford Hospital, Heath Lane, Stourbridge
Swanston Farm, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Engine Works, Lochburn Road, Wyndford, Glasgow
Cairns Farm Estate, Kirknewton
Neidpath Castle, Peebles
Cambo Estate, Kingsbarns, St Andrews, Scotland
Whitekirk Hill, North Berwick
The Cow Shed Crail, Scotland
Hidden River Cabins, Longtown, Carlisle, UK
Clava Mains, Inverness, Scotland
Doxford, Chathill, UK
Dunglass, Cockburnspath
Dallas Lodge, Morayshire, Scotland, UK
Eyemouth, UK
Windermere, UK
Nairn, UK
The Cruin, Arden, UK
Belfast, UK
Aberdeen, UK
Rule Valley Simulated Game, Hawick, UK
Peebles, UK
Falkirk

So if you're looking to hire the finest ceilidh and covers band Scotland has to offer, get in touch with Circassian Ceilidh Band.

View more videos and read verified reviews of Circassian Ceilidh Band ➡️

4. The Motherships
Average booking price: £1,272 (as of April 2023)
Location: Glasgow, Scotland

The Motherships are a 4 piece covers band from central Scotland that entertain at weddings, corporate events and parties.

Their only aim is for all clients that book them to have exactly what they want, when they want it!

They are frequently described as the best rock and indie wedding band in Scotland, featuring solid male vocals.

The band can also provide a ceilidh set, making them an unbeatable Scottish ceilidh covers band and without doubt one of the best wedding bands Glasgow offers.

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

Culzean Castle, Maybole, UK
Lochside House Hotel, New Cumnock, UK
Glenbervie House Hotel, Larbert, UK
Seamill Hydro, West Kilbride
North Queensferry, Inverkeithing, UK
Elgin, UK
North Berwick, UK

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Motherships ➡️

5. Ceilidh Fire
Average booking price: £1,316 (as of April 2023)
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Ceilidh Fire are a professional ceilidh band based in Edinburgh, Scotland

The group comprises some of the best musicians in Scotland, all of whom are passionate about Scottish music.

So if you're looking to hire a young and modern ceilidh band for your wedding or event in Scotland, get in touch with Ceilidh Fire.

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

Villeneuve-de-Duras, France
Bergerac, France
Burg Battenberg, Germany
Glenapp Castle, Ballantrae, Girvan
University of St Andrews
The Colonnades at the Signet Library, Edinburgh
Fingask Castle, Rait, Perth, UK
Barnard Castle
Hopetoun House, South Queensferry
The Engine Works, Lochburn Road, Wyndford, Glasgow
The Byre at Inchyra Luxury Barn Weddings & Events, Perth
Crossbasket Castle Hotel, Glasgow
Achnagairn Estate, Kirkhill, Inverness, Scotland
Kirknewton House Stables, Edinburgh
Knockraich Farm, Balfron, Glasgow, UK
Forres Town Hall, Moray, Scotland, UK
Summerhall, Newington, Edinburgh, UK
Braemar Highland Games Centre, Ballater, UK
Marthrown of Mabie, Dumfries
Yorkshire, UK
Maidenhead, Berkshire

View more videos and read verified reviews of Ceilidh Fire ➡️

6. Ceilidh Storm
Average booking price: £1,535 (as of April 2023)
Location: St Andrews, Scotland

Ceilidh Storm are a charismatic covers and ceilidh band based in Scotland with an excellent repertoire of rock and pop from acts as diverse as ELO, Queen and Taylor Swift.

They perform as a quartet or trio and can also add fiddle if the emphasis is on the ceilidh. The band play the very best of rock and pop covers music and covers from the 1950s to current chart hits.

They have an extensive repertoire of songs from many different genres and decades, and specialise in providing exciting, upbeat, modern ceilidh music, interspersed into their covers set.

With an experienced dance-caller present, even novice ceilidh-ers can dance the night away!

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

Airth Castle Hotel, Stirlingshire, UK
Glen Clova Hotel, Angus, UK
Monkton House, Old Craighall, Musselburgh, UK
Cameron House, Alexandria
Garvock House Hotel, Saint John's Drive, Dunfermline, UK
Taypark House, Perth Road, Dundee
Rhynd Café and Events Venue, Tayport, UK
Stoke-on-Trent, UK
Errol, Perth, UK
Helensburgh, Scotland
Bonchester Bridge, Hawick, Scotland

So if you're looking to hire the finest ceilidh and covers band Scotland has to offer, get in touch with Ceilidh Storm.

View more videos and read verified reviews of Ceilidh Storm ➡️

7. Banjo Embargo
Average booking price: £1,450 - £1,850 (as of April 2023)
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Banjo Embargo are an Edinburgh-based acoustic mash-ups band delivering party classics in an original and imaginative style.

Once described as ‘Hayseed Dixie on speed with a serious chunk of Funk!’, they have been making fans wherever they play.

We're regularly booked to perform for weddings and events at Cray House & Estate in Blairgowrie and Balbirnie House in Glenrothes, Scotland.

They feature five-string banjo, chunky acoustic guitar, double bass, stripped down drums (sometimes even a suitcase) and brilliant four-part harmonies.

This tweed-clad Edinburgh quintet have been entertaining crowds across Europe with their brilliantly imaginative take on some of pop’s most memorable tunes. Whatever your flavour they’ve got it covered!

Since their inception in 2007, their shows have included many gigs up and down the country and beyond including festivals, awards ceremonies, the 2014 Ryder Cup end party, Edinburgh Film Festival wrap parties, Edinburgh Book Festival launch parties, gigs for Visit Scotland, Fynefest, List Magazine's annual Festival Party, Club Vegas and The World Famous Spiegeltent along with over 400 other shows.

Other notables are gigs at the old Marquee Club in Soho, London, a cocktail boat on Loch Lomond, an awards ceremony in Malta and a pool party in Ibiza.

They've also played many private parties too including one for the cast of BBC's Eastenders and another for fashion designer Jenny Packham.

With 5 string banjo, acoustic guitar, double bass, stripped-down drum kit and 4 vocalists, some really do say that their bluegrass-funk interpretations are better than the originals.

Their eclectic and diverse blend of mash-ups include tunes by Louis Prima, Radiohead, Daft Punk, The Prodigy, Metalica, Panjabi MC’s Knightrider remix of ‘Mundian To Bach Ke’, a bluegrass souped version of Dizzy Rascal’s ‘Dance Wiv Me’, New Order’s ‘Blue Monday’ and ‘Jump Around’ by House of Pain.

Our set list also includes Donna Summer's 'I Feel Love', a high-octane version of Duran Duran’s ‘Girls on Film’, a stylophone-powered version of 'The Final Countdown', The Beastie Boys’ ‘Intergalactic’, Beyonce’s ‘Crazy in Love’, and Nelly’s bluegrass-ed ‘Hot In Herre’.

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

Toftcombs Mansion House, Biggar, UK
Cottiers Theatre, Hyndland Street, Glasgow, UK
Cray House & Estate, Blairgowrie, UK
Balbirnie House, Glenrothes, Markinch, UK
Bo'ness Town Hall

So if you're looking to hire the finest modern bluegrass pop covers band UK has to offer, get in touch with us.

Barney (Guitar & Vocals)

Barney has recorded albums and played and toured in USA, Holland and extensively in the U.K. Won the MTV ‘In The City’ Unsigned Band of the Year award in 1997 and subsequently signed a two-single deal with Boy George before securing a large album deal with New York-based label ‘Roadrunner Records’.

He has an honours degree in Sonic Art, DJs and also does music and sound design for adverts, theatre and dance.

Richard (Drums & Vocals)

Richard graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a 1st class honours degree in music, and now plays regularly across the UK and further afield.

Recent artists he has worked with include number 1 boyband The Wanted, The Sugababes, Grammy nominee Muhsinah, African Jazz Singer 'Somi' (number 2 world music artist works with John Legend, Paul Simon, Dave Gilmore), number one selling artists The Noisettes, Scottish rising star Carrie Mac, electronic act Homework and critically acclaimed Jazz/Fusion group The Discordian Trio.

He has performed on BBC1, 2, ITV and Channel 4 and as well as radio stations across Europe and played in the multiple award-winning show 'Hamlet! The Musical'.

Pat (Banjo & Vocals)

Pat was born in Belfast and has lived all over the UK. As well as playing the 5 string in Banjo Embargo he plays in and manages Edinburgh based independent folk/bluegrass band Southern Tenant Folk Union and London-based soundtrack maestros The Incredibly Strange Film Band.

An experienced touring and recording musician, Pat has won many awards, performed on national radio (Radio 4's 'Loose Ends') TV (Saturday Night Live) and in theatres and venues all over Europe and the USA.

Craig (Double Bass)

Craig has a degree in music from Napier University in Edinburgh and has spent time in New York City performing and studying at The New School while also studying privately with bass masters such as John Patitucci and Felix Pastorius.

An experienced and versatile musician, he has shared the stage with modern jazz/fusion group The Discordian Trio, contemporary folk singer Jake Cogan, 60's French pop revivalists Jack And The, African jazz singer Somi, and New York based improvised comedy group The Vigilante among others.

He has performed live on national radio shows and toured the UK on a number of occasions as well appearing at major events including the Cheltenham Jazz festival.

View more videos and read verified reviews of Banjo Embargo ➡️

8. Hup
Average booking price: £1,525 (as of April 2023)
Location: Glasgow, Scotland

Hup is a four-piece band bringing a traditional Scottish feel to all genres, from Contemporary to Classic Party Hits.

The band is comprised of father and son Eddie and Matt and father and daughter Tam and Eilidh! All members are extremely dependable and bring a wealth of experience.

Hup is available to hire for all kinds of events, from weddings and private parties to pub and corporate events, the band can play them all!

Eddie brings a massive sound to the music with his Midi Accordion and Keyboards, Matt is one of Scotland’s top young Vocalist and Guitarist, Tam brings a Rootsy feel on the Mandolin with Eilidh providing some foot-stomping Fiddling and the finesse of her classically trained Violin.

The band have been blowing crowds away for three years now with their mix of Rock and Pop Classics and a few bouncing Ceilidh Dance sets thrown in to make every party one to remember.

They're definitely one of Scotland's best folk-inspired modern cover bands featuring accordion, mandolin and violin / fiddle.

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

View more videos and read verified reviews of Hup ➡️

9. The Jukebox Swing Band
Average booking price: £1,542 (as of April 2023)
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

The Jukebox Swing Band began its musical life as a classic swing and jazz band. However, influences of the 1950’s, classic film themes and current music began to inspire the band.

Combining their love of old and new music, The Jukebox Swing Band offers up “pop-swing” by remastering modern favourites into vintage style tunes which sit happily alongside jazz standards.

Old and young find themselves dancing the night away in their own personal nostalgia.

View more videos and read verified reviews of The Jukebox Swing Band ➡️

10. Seafolk Ceilidh Band
Average booking price: £1,256 (as of April 2023)
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Performing together since 2007, Seafolk ceilidh band provide a fresh, modern approach to the classic ceilidh, combining traditional with the not-so-traditional.

Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, but happy to travel throughout the country as well as overseas, they mainly provide music for weddings, corporate events, parties and student events.

They can provide lighter background music as well as upbeat ceilidh and pop/rock covers music for dancing.

View more videos and read verified reviews of Seafolk Ceilidh Band ➡️

11. Sound Castle
Average booking price: £1,039 (as of April 2023)
Location: Falkirk, Scotland

Sound Castle is an exciting function band comprised of five main elements: guitar, bass, keyboards, drums and vocals.

The band also offer a ceilidh set, calling dances as needed.

With two vocalists, Sound Castle perform fantastic harmonies and tunes that you just can’t help but dance to.

Sound Castle draw from a vast repertoire that spans from the 1950s to the present day, and with their unrivalled versatility, the band creates a fabulous party atmosphere that truly enhances any occasion, however big or small.

We're regularly booked to perform for weddings and events at Best Western Plus Keavil House Hotel in Dunfermline, Scotland.

Sound Castle has performed at functions in every 5-star venue across Scotland, including venues in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen and all over Perthshire, Ayrshire and central Scotland.

The band have built an impressive list of corporate clients from the world of Scottish Football, Scottish Motor Sport, Oil, Pharmaceuticals, Local Authority, Education and the Financial Sector.

Sound Castle is a reliable, hardworking and eager to please band who would be delighted to play a part in your event!

The group will be happy to alter their setlist to fit with your event and are more than happy to learn a particular track for your first dance.

View more videos and read verified reviews of Sound Castle ➡️

Browse Scotland Wedding Bands

FixTheMusic provides bands for thousands of weddings and private events each year. We've put together some FAQs about hiring a wedding band, a few of which are listed below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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 most wedding bands perform for?

Most bands play 2 x 45 minute or 2 x 1 hour live sets at weddings.

What happens between and after their live sets?

Most 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.

What songs will the band 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?

Yes! 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.

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?

Yes. 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 will the band arrive?

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.

What time will the band 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 the band stay later than midnight?

Usually, yes. But bands will normally charge a slightly higher fee for this later finish.

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 him until 3am or 4am.

Will the band bring their own equipment?

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.

Does the band need a stage?

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, 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.

Do I need to hire a DJ as well as a 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 the 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.

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 will the band 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. In certain cities such as London, you might also need to cover the costs of parking.

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.

What is Public Liability Insurance?

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.

Does the band 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.

Can the band 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 much is a wedding band in Scotland?

A good rule of thumb is that the cost per musician in a Scottish wedding band is roughly £285 to £335, so an acoustic duo would charge in the region of £570 to £670, a three-piece band charges approximately £855 to £1,005 and a four-piece band would cost about £1140 to £1,340 to hire for the evening’s entertainment in Scotland.

What is the most popular wedding band in Scotland?

The best and most popular wedding band in Scotland is generally considered to be The Scottish Soul Collective, who are based in Glasgow. They are one of the most popular bands on FixTheMusic, a free platform for comparing and booking outstanding bands and musicians. The Scottish Soul Collective consistently receive excellent feedback from brides & grooms, and local wedding planners alike. Aside from soul, they also perform funk and modern pop and RnB covers, as well as offering a DJ service.

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Last Updated: 17 APRIL 2023

— 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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