Background Music Bands for Hire

Hire Background Music Bands in the UK

Background music sets the tone for an event without competing for attention. The right act creates atmosphere, fills silences and gives a room a sense of occasion, all while allowing guests to talk, mingle and enjoy themselves. It is one of the most requested types of live entertainment for weddings, corporate functions and private parties alike.

What counts as a background music act?

Almost any musician or ensemble can perform as background music if they have the experience and judgement to pitch their volume correctly. The most popular choices include jazz trios and quartets, string quartets, solo harpists, pianists, classical guitarists and acoustic bands. Solo vocalists performing to a backing track are also a common option, particularly for drinks receptions and evening meals. The key skill is restraint: a good background musician reads the room and adjusts their volume and repertoire to suit the moment.

Background music at weddings

Weddings often call for background music at several points during the day. A string ensemble or harpist might play during the ceremony and drinks reception, while a jazz band takes over for the wedding breakfast. Some couples also book their evening band to play an acoustic or unplugged set during the meal before switching to a full performance later. If you are planning music for multiple parts of the day, look for acts that offer flexible set formats or consider a singing pianist or guitarist who can cover several hours without needing a full band setup.

Background music for corporate events

Corporate dinners, awards ceremonies, product launches and networking events all benefit from well-chosen background music. Classical ensembles and jazz groups are the most popular choices for corporate settings, but Latin bands, swing bands and even subtle electronic sets can work depending on the brand and audience. For larger events with multiple rooms or stages, you may want different acts performing simultaneously to create distinct atmospheres.

How much do background musicians cost?

The cost of hiring background music varies widely depending on the type and size of act. Solo performers such as pianists, guitarists and harpists typically start from around £300 for a two-hour set, while a jazz trio or string quartet will usually range from £600 upwards. The average price for a background music act is currently £728. Use the price comparison section on this page to compare rates across the 653 acts listed.