About these Function Bands

Function bands come in different shapes and sizes and are often hired for all manner of events. Professional bands have years of experience performing in public and at weddings or other private events. These bands are usually hired to be the main entertainment at an event, like the evening party at a wedding reception. Because of their experience in performing and huge repertoire, a function group will make your event come alive and give your guests an entertaining performance that will make your event a night to remember!

"I just wanted to get in touch to say THANK YOU for such an incredible band! WOW WOW WOW! I have honestly hand on heart not seen such a fantastic band and the floor was packed all night which was amazing! From their professionalism, personalities, performance and fabulous set it was faultless. I can cannot tell you how many compliments we've had about "the best band we've ever seen!" and everyone is trying to get me to book you guys again same time next year for a 1 year anniversary party! Ha! Seriously though I can't thank you enough for all your hard work, and patience with me ;) I was so thrilled with how it all went, it simply just couldn't have been better! I will definitely recommend you and have passed your number on to a few people already. More people than I can count have asked for your name and I will 100% call you if anything if I ever need anything in future!"

Emma's review of ReMix

Ideal for:

Function bands are the jack of all trades when it comes to musicians. Their versatility will make them perfect for virtually any event, but they will specialise in weddings, birthdays, functions and corporate events.

Function ensembles usually perform at private events, however some do also play at pubs or clubs across the country. This is often a good opportunity to see the band you’re interested in live before you go booking them for your event. Alternatively, most bands now have live recordings and live videos online, so thanks to the Internet all potential customers can view a live performance from the band without leaving the house! .

When booking Function Bands:

Bands can range from 3 piece to up to 9 members, so it’s vital you’re aware of their technical requirements before you agree to have them play at your event. These requirements may include a dressing room for the band to change in and the need for a certain amount of power sources to be able to power amplification and monitors. If the function band has not already made you aware of their requirements, it’s up to you to ask what they will need. Other possible requirements could be a large stage size and refreshments if the musicians are expected to remain at the venue for a long time.

When considering the entertainment for your event, it’s crucial that you make your venue aware of your entertainment plans. If you are performing in a marquee, you will need to check how long you’re allowed to have live music for and what time the curfew is. Similarly, every venue will have a live music license that will have a curfew. This could have a disastrous effect on your event if the live music has to be cut short to fall within regulations. You should also check whether your venue has a noise limiter as some have strict restrictions on the volume at which the electricity completely cuts out.

Prices for Function Bands:

Prices for function bands will usually depend on when you are hiring them. Popular months are usually over the summer for weddings and christmas time for corporate events. A professional 4 piece function band will usually charge a minimum of £800. If you're looking to cut down on travel costs, then use the "advanced search" feature to find professional function bands near you.

About Function Band's repertoire:

The band will have a large repertoire of material, which scans contemporary music for the past thirty or forty years, and will usually suit every type of audience. Many will also make an effort to learn songs if requested, although this may sometimes be at an extra charge. Contact your musicians early if you want them to learn a special song for you as it can take a while to order sheet music and arrange rehearsals.

Typical repertoire for a function band will include hits from the 1960's by the likes of The Beatles and The Kinks, 70's disco funk, 90's rock anthems and modern chart hits by the likes of Ed Sheeran, The Killers, Taylor Swift and Walk The Moon.

With more choice than ever these days, it definitely pays to check out as many bands as possible before going ahead with your booking. Here at Last Minute Musicians we have 996 specialist function bands for you to choose from. All of the bands can be booked online for any event in London or the or anywhere in the UK. You can get a direct quote from all of the bands on the site. Don't be put off by there location as they may be willing to travel almost anywhere in the entire UK (although this could incur an extra cost). To view all of bands based in London please visit our Function Bands London page. Otherwise you the links above to find a group who are based in your local area.