Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We've put together some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you use FixTheMusic. If you still have questions, get in touch and we'll be happy to help.

What does it cost to use FixTheMusic? (It's free!)
It’s completely free to use FixTheMusic. Musicians will quote prices that include travel and other expenses. There are no added charges.
What are the advantages of booking musicians through FixTheMusic?
FixTheMusic is free to use. You communicate directly with our hand-picked musicians via email. When you’re ready to book, pay securely online. FixTheMusic is by far the simplest and quickest way to book musicians for your wedding or event. Our innovative system means you can compare quotes from different musicians easily and make an informed choice. Payment by debit/credit card gives you complete protection. All payments are held securely until after the event for your peace of mind. Our musicians are paid one working day after the event. We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service — have a read of our verified reviews.
What kind of musicians are listed on FixTheMusic?
We personally curate a diverse selection of professional musicians across the UK and beyond. Our acts range from top wedding bands to esteemed string quartets — and everything in between! FixTheMusic was founded by musicians. We’re well positioned to judge the quality of our acts and we only select the very best.
I’ve submitted an enquiry. Now what?
Details of your event will be sent to relevant acts who’ll be in touch via email.
How do I confirm my booking?
When musicians send you a quote, the email will include a payment link. Use this to pay the deposit to confirm the booking. If your event is within 45 days you will need to pay the full amount to secure the booking. Some bands don't include a payment button in their first message to you, but they will send you a payment link to confirm the booking online once you are ready to do so. Where a band has quoted for an overseas event with their travel expenses included, they might request a higher deposit (up to 50% of the total amount) so that they can pay for their flights etc. at the time of booking.
When can I expect to receive offers from available musicians?
Most musicians respond within a few hours. Bands can take between 24 - 48 hours to quote as they often need to check availability of all band members. We’ll let you know if there’s going to be a delay.
How many offers will I receive?
Expect to receive offers from up to 5 musicians. We only send out the most relevant matches from our pool of high-quality acts.
How do I contact musicians on FixTheMusic?
Just reply to the email with their offer and your message will go straight to them. Once your booking is confirmed, you can call or continue messaging our musicians via email.
How can I review the offers I’ve received?
Each offer will be emailed to you. If you haven't received any emails from us, get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
Can I browse musicians on FixTheMusic?
Yes, click here to browse our acts. You can enquire directly with these and other relevant musicians.
When is payment of the remainder due?
Payment of the remaining amount is due no later than 45 days before the event. We will notify you in good time about this.
What about contracts?
Every booking is governed by FixTheMusic’s standard agreement. Messages exchanged in email about date, timings etc append this contract accordingly. Having everything confirmed in writing protects both parties.
Is my payment secure?
Absolutely. Payments are processed by Stripe, a payment platform that exceeds the most stringent industry standards for security. Have a read of Stripe’s security features.
Can I pay in cash?
We generally only take card payments. This lets us provide you with the best possible service and saves you carrying wads of cash on the night.
What happens if the act I’ve booked cancels?
This is extremely rare. We only list professional musicians whose reputations depend on attending every event and providing the very best experience for you and your guests. In the highly unlikely event of a cancellation, not only will the act do their best to secure a replacement act, but we will also draw on our vast pool of musicians to provide other options for you. If no replacement can be found, you will receive a full refund.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Once the deposit is paid, it is non-refundable. Our musicians are professionals who require a certain level of job security in order to keep performing. Once they are confirmed for your event it is likely they will have to turn down other offers on that date. If you wish to cancel a confirmed booking less than 45 days before the event, you will not be entitled to any refund. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.
My venue has a sound limiter. Can I still hire a band?
The answer to this question will depend on the specific limit at the venue. Some venues have sound limiters that cause the band’s PA system to cut out if it reaches a certain volume. You should let the musicians know about this before booking them, so they can arrange to play quieter to meet the venue’s noise restrictions. Some bands refuse to perform in certain venues with very restrictive limits (e.g. a large soul or Motown band wouldn't be suitable in a small space with a restrictive limiter), so it's always best to speak with your band about this. Certain venues have such strict limits that even cheering from your guests will trip the noise limiter. Read our blog post on the best bands we recommend for venues with sound limiters.
Can I see the band or musician before booking?
Bands and musicians on FixTheMusic mostly play at private events such as weddings, corporate events and private parties. Some occasionally play public gigs, so ask them if you’re interested in seeing them live. The vast majority of our clients are happy to rely on the video and audio samples on each act’s profile before booking them.
Will the band members at my event be the same as the ones in the videos?
Most bands have a core group of musicians who feature in their promotional videos and perform at most of their events. However, it isn't always possible for every band member to attend each event (e.g. because of illness). Every band will have a small pool of alternative professional musicians and singers who they call upon in these circumstances.
What do I need to provide for the band?
As standard, bands will require you to provide them with a hot meal and soft drinks for each band member, free parking, and a secure and clean changing area. Some bands may have other requests depending on the nature of their performance. Where a band performs at an evening event, they are usually away from home for more than 12 hours. In order to get the best out of your band, they request that each member is provided with a hot meal or access to a buffet. You don't necessarily need to give them the same meal as your guests but it should be more substantial than crisps and sandwiches. If your venue can't provide a meal for the band you will need to provide a meal subsidy so that they can buy food elsewhere. The band should be provided with water or soft drinks while they are at the venue. Afternoon acts don't necessarily need a meal unless they are at your venue for longer than 4 hours. Water or soft drinks are always greatly appreciated.
What songs will the band play?
Most bands have a set list that they work from. Before your event, they will usually send you their current list and ask that you indicate any preferences or any particular songs you would prefer them to avoid playing. The majority of bands also allow you to request one or two new songs for them to learn (e.g. for your first dance). Although this is normally free of charge, some bands will request a small fee to cover their time arranging and rehearsing the song. Most bands will adapt their music on the night, using their professional experience to judge the songs that are working best with your particular audience. The set lists provided on FixTheMusic profiles are updated frequently but we can't guarantee they will be the same as the set list the band performs at your event. Bands frequently add or remove songs from their set list as they adapt to audience reactions. For some bands with multiple singers or different line-ups, the specific repertoire list will vary depending on which options are performing at your event.
How far in advance should I book musicians for my event?
It’s always best to book as far in advance as possible. Particularly busy dates include Saturdays in May to September and most dates over the Christmas period. Most acts will take bookings two years in advance. If your enquiry is last minute, don’t worry! We have fixed musicians for hundreds of events at short notice. Enquire now and we’ll find you someone who’s available.
Do I need to pay VAT?
Prices include VAT where applicable but most acts don’t charge VAT.
Is FixTheMusic registered for VAT?
Yes, we are registered for UK VAT with registration number 386163376. View VAT Certificate