Live music always brings a great atmosphere, and it can really contribute to your event, whether it's a wedding, a party, or a corporate event.

Of course, a lot depends on the band you choose to hire, and that is why you need to take your time and ensure that you hire the perfect band for the event you have in mind.

Now, let's try and answer that all-encompassing question - how do you hire a band?

Clearly define your expectations

Before starting your search for the perfect band, it is important to know exactly what you expect to get. Your choice depends on the reason for the celebration, location, number of guests and type of music. Now let's see what some major questions to answer for the following events are -

How to hire a band for a wedding?

You need to have the following information ready -

• How long will the festivities last?
• Is it an indoor or outdoor celebration?
• What genre of music do you want, and should it change over the course of the celebration?
• What is the budget?

How to hire a band for a party?

You need to have the following information ready -

• Is it an indoor or outdoor celebration?
• What genre of music do you want?
• What is the budget?
• Is it a black-tie or causal event?

It is important to keep in mind that a band that specializes in weddings might not be the ideal fit for your private party and vice versa. And this is where our next paragraph comes in - let's see what the next steps in hiring the perfect band for your event are.

Now You Know What You are Looking For - Time to Hire a Band

Now let's go through some of the most relevant steps in hiring the band. Once you know which event you are hiring them for and you have answered some or all questions we mentioned it is time to start your search -

Make sure you hire a band with experience

Of course, their experience needs to be related to the type of event you are planning. Hiring a band that has been doing this for a while and whose reviews you can easily find and read is always a good option. Yes, it comes with a bigger price tag, but it also takes away the stress of having inexperienced or untested.

And no, this is not just about the quality of playing but also being ready for the type of event. Especially for a wedding you need a band that can play for extended time, over the course of what might be an entire day. So they need to be ready for that type of engagement.

Go for a local hire and see them live

With a local hire you will have a better chance to hear them at another event and see if they are what you are looking for. A video coverage usually does not do a band justice or, in case it is their own version, it might have been embellished by sound engineers.

In addition, make sure that you meet in person before booking them. You can check them out at an event or show they already have scheudled. It is easier to get a feel for a band that way, and if you connect and are on the same page, that is just a giant bonus when it comes to ensuring a great time is had by all.

Consider the sound options

This is one of the reasons you need to answer the questions from the first paragraph. It is not the same setting up in a closed space, like a dance hall or in a garden venue. The acoustics differ, and the band needs to be prepared for that.

Ideally, the venue has a sound system for a band to use, if this is not the case, you need to find a band with their own sound equipment. Many bands do provide their own sound but it will need to be discussed before booking. It is also important to discuss how loud you want them and when. For example, gentle background music while people dine should be quieter than when people are looking to hit the dance floor.

Make sure to have the paperwork is in order

You need to have everything on paper once you have selected a band for your event. Make sure that you include the following -

• A meal, usually dinner, for the musicians
• Exact times, date, and location of the engagement
• A required non-refundable deposit
• Breakdown of all costs

Now you know exactly how to hire a band for an event, and all that is left is to have a great time, enjoy the music and celebrate!