Duos & Small Groups for Hire

Hire Duos & Small Groups in the UK

Duos and small groups are one of the most versatile options for live entertainment. A two-piece or trio takes up less space, costs less than a full band and keeps volume at a level that suits venues with sound limiters or noise restrictions. That does not mean a smaller act means a smaller impact. The right duo or trio can deliver everything from gentle background music during a meal to a packed dance floor later in the evening. With 888 acts listed, you can compare styles, watch videos and read 7513 reviews from real clients.

Types of duos and small groups

This category covers a wide range of formats. Acoustic duos, typically a vocalist and guitarist, are the most popular and work well for ceremonies, drinks receptions and wedding breakfasts. Jazz duos and trios bring a sophisticated feel to corporate events and evening receptions. Singing duos with close harmonies suit vintage-themed weddings and garden parties. Beyond vocalists, you will find instrumental pairings such as piano and saxophone, violin and guitar, or harp and flute, each creating a distinct atmosphere. Some acts perform as a stripped-back duo for daytime sets and expand to a trio or four-piece for the evening, giving you two different feels from a single booking.

When a duo or small group is the right choice

Smaller acts are not just a budget alternative to a full band. They are often the better fit for the event. Intimate venues, restaurants, boats, courtyards and marquees all suit a compact setup. If your venue has a sound limiter, a duo or trio will naturally sit below the threshold that trips larger acts. They are also a popular choice for daytime entertainment at weddings: a singing guitarist or acoustic duo during the ceremony and drinks reception, with a bigger act taking over for the evening. For corporate bookings, a jazz duo or piano-and-vocal pairing provides polished background music without overwhelming conversation.

Choosing between a duo, trio or small band

A duo gives you the most affordable and flexible option. Two musicians can set up quickly, fit into tight spaces and keep volume low. A trio adds depth, whether that is a drummer bringing rhythm to an acoustic set, a saxophonist adding colour to a jazz pairing, or a second vocalist harmonising on choruses. Small bands of four or five players bridge the gap between a stripped-back duo and a full acoustic band, offering a bigger sound while still keeping the footprint manageable. Think about the space you have, the volume your venue allows and whether you want background music, dancing, or both.

Duos and small groups for weddings

Many couples book a duo or small group to cover the ceremony and daytime, then hire a separate evening act. A harpist or string quartet for the ceremony, an acoustic duo for the drinks reception and a covers band for the evening is a classic combination. Alternatively, some duos and trios offer all-day packages that span the ceremony through to the last dance. Check individual listings for details on what each act offers and whether they can tailor their set to different parts of the day.

Pricing for duos and small groups

Duos and small groups currently range from £100 to £4047, with an average price of £677. Solo and duo acts sit at the lower end, while trios and four-piece groups with full PA and lighting command higher fees. Saturday evening bookings during peak wedding season are the most expensive slots. Use the price comparison section on this page to compare rates across acts and find one that fits your budget.