Flautists for hire in Kent

Booking flautists in Kent as early as possible increases the chance of securing their availability on your event date, particularly during busy times of the year. However, many acts also accept last minute bookings, and we have successfully arranged performances for clients with just a few hours' notice.

The cost of hiring musicians in Kent can vary significantly depending on the type of act. The average price is currently £383. Budget-level acts may be available for as low as £100, while top-tier acts can command prices as high as £847.

Most solo wind musicians offer performances of around 2 x 45 minutes within a two-hour window, with a break in between. This is partly practical: playing a wind instrument continuously is physically demanding on the embouchure (the muscles used to control the mouthpiece or reed), and short breaks help maintain tone quality throughout the performance. For wedding ceremonies or drinks receptions, many musicians also offer shorter sets of 30 to 60 minutes. If you need music across a longer period, discuss this with your chosen musician when booking, as some are happy to extend their performance or arrange additional sets for a supplementary fee.

Many wind musicians are happy to perform outdoors for garden parties, outdoor wedding ceremonies or drinks receptions, but there are practical considerations to be aware of. Wind and direct sunlight can both affect performance: a strong breeze makes it difficult to keep sheet music in place and can carry the sound away from your guests, while prolonged sun exposure can cause instruments to overheat and go out of tune. Rain is a more serious concern, as moisture can damage wooden instruments (such as clarinets and some flutes) and affect the mechanism on brass instruments. If you are planning an outdoor event, provide a sheltered area such as a gazebo or canopy where the musician can set up, and have a contingency plan in case the weather turns. Discuss outdoor performance with your musician when booking so they can advise on what will and will not work for their instrument.

Solo wind musicians are generally self-contained and will arrive with their instrument, a music stand, and any accessories they need. If your event is small (under around 80 to 100 guests) and in a reasonably enclosed space, most wind instruments can be heard clearly without amplification. For larger events, outdoor settings, or noisy environments, some musicians will bring a small PA system or clip-on microphone to ensure they can be heard comfortably. If they do use amplified equipment, your venue may require a PAT testing certificate for electrical safety. When booking, let your musician know your expected guest numbers and the type of venue so they can prepare accordingly. You do not normally need to provide anything other than a flat, dry area to perform and access to a mains power socket if amplification is being used.

Solo wind musicians are popular for a wide range of events. At weddings, they are commonly booked for the ceremony (processional and recessional music, interludes during readings or signing of the register) and the drinks reception. Corporate events, product launches, awards dinners and charity galas also benefit from the atmosphere a solo wind musician creates. Trumpet players in particular are often booked for memorial services and funerals to perform pieces such as The Last Post. Flautists and clarinettists suit more intimate settings such as afternoon teas, private dining and gallery openings. When enquiring, let the musician know the type of event and which part of the day you would like them to cover, as this will help them suggest appropriate repertoire.

Yes, many solo wind musicians are able to perform with pre-recorded backing tracks, which can add a fuller sound to their performance without the need for a full band. This is particularly common with trumpet players performing pop, jazz or classical crossover pieces, and with saxophonists, though some flautists and clarinettists also offer this option. The musician will typically use a Bluetooth speaker or small PA system to play the backing track, so you should check whether your venue allows amplified sound. If you are holding an outdoor event or a ceremony in a venue with noise restrictions, it is worth confirming this with both your venue and your musician in advance. Not all wind musicians offer backing tracks, so if this is important to you, mention it when making your enquiry.

To help your musician prepare properly, provide the following details when booking: the date, location and postcode of the venue; the type of event (wedding ceremony, drinks reception, dinner, corporate function); approximate guest numbers; whether the performance will be indoors or outdoors; the times you would like them to play; and any specific music requests, especially for key moments such as walking down the aisle or a first dance. If your venue has any access restrictions, limited parking, stairs, or requires performers to enter through a specific entrance, share this in advance. For venues with sound limiters or noise restrictions, let your musician know so they can plan their setup accordingly.

Professional flautists typically cover a broad range of styles. Classical repertoire is the foundation for most, including baroque, romantic and contemporary concert pieces. Many also offer folk and Celtic music, which suits the flute's natural tone particularly well. Jazz flute, popularised by players like Herbie Mann, is another option for drinks receptions and evening events. Some flautists play world music styles, including Indian bansuri and Latin American flute. If you are looking for pop or modern arrangements, many flautists can arrange contemporary songs for flute, either solo or with a backing track. Check each musician's profile on Last Minute Musicians for their repertoire and ask about specific requests when you enquire.

The flute is one of the quieter solo instruments, so amplification depends on the setting. For intimate events of up to around 50 to 60 guests in an enclosed space, such as a wedding ceremony in a small church or a private dining room, acoustic flute is usually sufficient. For larger venues, outdoor events, or any setting with significant background noise, amplification through a small PA or clip-on microphone is recommended to ensure the music carries. Most professional flautists own their own amplification equipment and will advise on what is needed based on your venue and guest numbers. Let your musician know the details when booking so they can plan appropriately.