1920s, 30s & 40s Style Bands for hire

Hire a 1920s, 30s or 40s Style Band in the UK

Vintage-era bands bring more than just music to an event. The costumes, the energy and the atmosphere they create transport guests to a different time, whether that is the roaring twenties, the golden age of swing or the wartime dance halls of the 1940s. With 279 acts listed in this category, you can find everything from small jazz combos and vocal harmony trios to full big band-style ensembles with brass sections and featured vocalists.

Gatsby and 1920s themed events

Great Gatsby and prohibition-themed parties are among the most popular bookings for vintage bands. A 1920s band in full period costume, playing Charleston, ragtime and hot jazz, sets the scene for a themed event in a way that recorded music cannot. Many acts offer extras such as choreographed dance routines, audience participation and themed props. For a more intimate feel, a jazz duo or trio playing 1920s standards creates an authentic speakeasy atmosphere at smaller venues. Browse our jazz bands category for acts that overlap with this era.

Wartime and 1940s bands

1940s wartime bands recreate the sound of the big band era, performing Glenn Miller, Andrews Sisters and Vera Lynn alongside other swing and dance band standards. These acts are popular for wartime-themed events, veterans's functions, charity balls and nostalgia evenings. Many wartime bands perform in uniform or period dress and can include a caller for jive and lindy hop dancing. If your event has a broader vintage theme spanning the 30s to 50s, a versatile swing band that covers multiple decades may be a better fit than an act focused on one era.

Vintage bands for weddings

Vintage-themed weddings have grown steadily in popularity, and a 1920s, 30s or 40s band is a natural centrepiece for the evening entertainment. Many vintage bands also play modern pop and chart songs rearranged in a swing or jazz style, which means the setlist appeals to all generations without breaking the vintage mood. This postmodern jukebox approach, playing Beyonce or Arctic Monkeys in a 1920s jazz arrangement, is one of the most requested formats for wedding receptions. For couples who want vintage music for the ceremony or drinks reception and a broader covers set for the evening, a swing band or vintage band from our related categories may also suit.

Corporate events and themed evenings

Vintage bands are a strong choice for corporate themed events, awards dinners, Christmas parties and product launches where you want entertainment with visual impact. The period costumes and theatrical performance style give guests something to watch as well as listen to, and the interactive element, from dance lessons to singalongs, encourages participation. For corporate events that need background music during a drinks reception followed by a more energetic set, many vintage bands can adapt their performance to suit the running order.

Choosing the right act

This category covers a broad span of styles, from trad jazz and Dixieland to big band swing, wartime vocal harmony, and postmodern jukebox pop. Think about which era or style fits your event best and watch the video clips on each listing to hear the difference. A full big band with ten or more members delivers a powerful dance floor experience but needs a large stage and a generous budget. A jazz trio or vocal harmony group offers a more intimate sound at a lower price point and works well in smaller spaces. If you are unsure which format suits your event, compare a few acts across different sizes.

Pricing

The average price for a vintage-era band is currently £823, with prices ranging from £150 to £6195. Smaller acts such as jazz duos and vocal trios sit at the lower end, while full swing bands and big band ensembles with brass sections command higher fees. Weekend bookings and the Christmas party season carry premium rates. Every listing shows a starting price, and the price comparison section further up this page gives a full breakdown.