Once the ceremony finishes, the focus shifts to the reception. A live band helps keep the night moving, from background music while guests settle in through to a full dancefloor later on.
Melbourne venues vary a lot, from CBD event spaces and private dining rooms to warehouse venues and regional estates. Booking a band that is used to working with different layouts, sound limits and schedules makes the evening run more smoothly.
We work with professional bands who perform regularly at weddings and private events across Melbourne and regional Victoria. They are familiar with typical run sheets, venue access requirements and the pacing of a reception.
Whether you want live music throughout the evening or just for the main party set, you can compare bands based on style, lineup size and budget.
You can choose from a wide range of styles including versatile party bands covering current songs and classics, funk and soul groups, rock and indie bands, jazz ensembles and acoustic duos or trios for earlier parts of the day. DJ and live combinations and roaming acts are also popular for cocktail hour.
For peak season weekends, many Melbourne bands are booked around 10 to 14 months ahead. If your wedding is midweek or outside peak months, you will usually have more choice. Booking early gives you the widest range of lineups and pricing options.
Most reception bookings include two live sets of 45 to 60 minutes, or one longer feature set, with music played through the band’s system between sets. Timings can be adjusted to suit speeches, formalities and venue curfews.
Prices vary depending on band size, experience and technical setup. Many bookings fall roughly between AUD $2,500 and $6,500 for a reception package, with larger bands or extended performances costing more. Always confirm whether GST, travel and extras are included in the quote.
Yes. Bands typically provide their own PA system, microphones and basic lighting suitable for most venues. If your venue has in house AV, the band will coordinate directly with the venue team.
Most professional bands carry public liability insurance and can provide a certificate of currency if required. Some venues also require electrical equipment to be test and tagged. Requirements vary, so it is best to confirm this early with your venue.
Many venues have sound level limits or set finish times, particularly in residential areas or heritage buildings. Bands are used to working within these conditions and can adjust volume or set timing to suit the venue.
Ask about load-in access, parking, lift availability, stage space and when suppliers can enter the venue. CBD venues and warehouse spaces often have strict access windows, so sharing this information early helps avoid delays.
Most bands are happy to learn a first dance or special request if they have enough notice. Let them know early so they can confirm it fits their lineup and style.
Professional bands maintain networks of substitute musicians who know their repertoire. If someone is unavailable due to illness or travel disruption, a replacement will be arranged so the performance can go ahead as planned.