Wedding Bands for Hire in San Francisco

With its sweeping bay views, iconic landmarks and elegant venues like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Pearl, the city offers a magical backdrop for live wedding music. Whether you want a jazz quartet for a rooftop cocktail hour, a high-energy showband to keep the dance floor full, or a unique act that captures your personality, San Francisco delivers.

With FixTheMusic, you can browse top local talent, watch live videos, and book the perfect soundtrack for your celebration in the heart of the Bay Area.

How far in advance should we book a San Francisco wedding band?

It’s best to secure your band as early as possible, especially if your wedding falls on a Saturday between May and October. Popular Bay Area acts often book up 12 to 18 months in advance. Venues like the Fairmont San Francisco and the Julia Morgan Ballroom are in high demand during peak season, so once you have your date and venue confirmed, start your music search right away.

Can we watch a San Francisco wedding band perform live before booking?

Most professional bands perform at private events only, so public shows are rare. Occasionally you may find them playing at local festivals, bars, or public concerts around the city. If live viewing isn’t possible, most bands have high-quality performance videos so you can see their style before making a decision.

Do San Francisco wedding bands bring their own equipment?

Yes. A professional wedding band will bring everything they need, including instruments, a sound system, and basic lighting. If your venue has sound restrictions, like certain hotels near residential neighborhoods, let your band know so they can bring the right gear.

How long will the band perform?

Most bands play for about two hours, often split into two or three sets. Some couples arrange for the band to perform during both the cocktail hour and the evening reception. Your band will tailor the schedule to fit your timeline.

Will our San Francisco wedding band learn our first dance song?

Yes. Most bands are happy to learn and perform your first dance live as long as you give them enough notice. If the song doesn’t match their style, they may suggest using the recorded version to ensure the moment feels just right.

What kind of music will the band play?

Every band has its own repertoire, from Motown and soul to classic rock, Top 40 hits, and jazz standards. Some focus on one style, while others cover multiple genres to keep the dance floor full. You can usually request certain songs to include or avoid.

Can we request additional songs beyond the first dance?

Most bands can learn one or two extra songs outside their normal setlist. More than that may not be possible due to rehearsal time. Always check with the band early so they can plan.

What happens during the band’s breaks?

Many wedding bands provide a playlist or “laptop DJ” service between sets so the music never stops. If you want an interactive DJ to take requests and keep the party going, you can hire both a live band and a professional DJ.

Will the band travel outside of San Francisco?

Yes. Many Bay Area wedding bands will travel to Napa Valley, Sonoma, or other nearby destinations. Travel fees may apply depending on the distance and setup needs.

Are there noise restrictions at San Francisco venues?

Some venues, especially outdoor spaces or those near residential areas, have decibel limits or curfews for live music. Golden Gate Park venues, for example, often have earlier cut-off times. Confirm with your venue and share the details with your band.

Can the band perform outdoors?

Yes, as long as they have proper cover and access to power. Outdoor performances are popular for waterfront weddings or rooftop receptions, but the band will need shelter from direct sunlight or rain to protect their instruments and equipment.

Do we need to provide food and drinks for the band?

It’s not required, but it’s common courtesy to provide a hot meal and non-alcoholic drinks. Bands often spend the entire day traveling, setting up, and performing, so a meal break helps keep their energy high.

Will the same musicians from the band’s videos perform at our wedding?

Usually, but not always. Most professional bands have a core lineup and a few substitute musicians they work with regularly. This ensures the performance still meets the same quality standard even if a member is unavailable.

Can the band handle MC duties?

Many bands can make basic announcements like introducing the couple or announcing the first dance. If you want a more interactive MC who keeps the night flowing, ask your band in advance or consider hiring a dedicated emcee.

What is the average cost of a wedding band in San Francisco?

Prices vary based on the size of the band, experience, and time of year. Most professional San Francisco wedding bands range from $2,000 to $6,000. Premium acts and larger showbands may cost more.