Question 1

What should I consider when hiring a singer for an event in Surrey?

Accepted Answer

Surrey is one of the most popular wedding and events counties in England, with venues ranging from grand country estates and National Trust properties to converted barns, golf clubs and vineyard settings. Many Surrey venues are in rural locations, so share detailed directions with your singer and let them know about parking arrangements and the route from the car to the performance area, as they will need to transport a PA system and other equipment. Surrey's proximity to London means you have access to a very wide selection of singers, including London-based performers for whom travel costs will be modest. Many rural Surrey venues have noise restrictions due to residential surroundings, so check with the venue about any sound limits and share these with the singer before booking.

Question 2

How long does a singer usually perform for?

Accepted Answer

Performance times are flexible and depend on the type of booking. For a wedding ceremony, a singer typically performs three to five songs covering the arrival of guests, the bridal entrance, the signing of the register, and the exit. This usually amounts to around 20 to 30 minutes of music. For a drinks reception or wedding breakfast, most singers perform one or two sets of 30 to 45 minutes, with breaks in between.

For evening events, the typical format is two sets of 45 minutes to an hour, with a break during which the singer usually plays a playlist through their PA system so the music continues. Some singers offer all-day packages covering the ceremony through to the evening, adjusting their style and energy to suit each part of the day. Discuss your preferred timings with the singer when booking so they can advise on the best arrangement.

Question 3

Can a singer perform outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Most singers can perform outdoors, provided there is a suitable setup. A singer using a PA system and backing tracks or a microphone will need access to mains power via a socket or extension lead. For smaller, more intimate outdoor moments such as a garden ceremony, some singers can perform with minimal or no amplification if the audience is close by and the setting is quiet.

The main practical risks for outdoor singing are wind (which affects microphone quality and can cause feedback) and rain (which can damage PA equipment and speakers). A covered area such as a gazebo or marquee is strongly recommended, and a backup indoor location should always be available. Discuss your outdoor plans with the singer when booking so they can advise on what equipment setup will work best for the space.

Question 4

What equipment does a singer provide?

Accepted Answer

Most professional singers are self-contained and bring their own PA system (speakers and amplifier), a microphone (wired or wireless), a microphone stand, and a device for playing backing tracks if they use them. Singers who accompany themselves on an instrument will also bring that instrument and any associated equipment such as a keyboard stand or guitar amp. Some singers bring a small lighting rig, though this is more common for evening performances than daytime sets.

Setup is typically quick for a solo singer, around 15 to 20 minutes. They will need access to one or two standard 13-amp power sockets near the performance area. If your venue has specific power supply limitations or restricted load-in routes, let the singer know in advance so they can plan accordingly.

Question 5

Can a singer learn a specific song for my event?

Accepted Answer

Most professional singers are happy to learn new songs if given enough notice, typically at least two to four weeks before the event. This is a popular request for ceremony entrance music, first dance songs, and other key moments. Some singers include one or two special requests as part of their standard booking fee, while others may charge a small additional fee if a song requires a new backing track to be commissioned or significant rehearsal time.

Raise any specific song requests as early as possible when making your enquiry. The singer can let you know whether the song suits their voice and style, how long they would need to prepare it, and whether there are any additional costs involved.

Question 6

How much space does a singer need to perform?

Accepted Answer

A solo singer needs very little space. A vocalist performing to backing tracks typically requires a floor area of around 1.5 metres by 1.5 metres for their PA speaker, backing track device, and a small amount of room to move. Singers who accompany themselves on guitar or keyboard will need slightly more space to accommodate their instrument.

The performance area should be on a flat surface with access to one or two power sockets. If the singer is performing during a drinks reception or dinner, position them where they can be heard clearly but are not blocking the flow of guests or waiting staff. For evening performances where the singer is the main entertainment, allow some open floor space in front of the performance area for dancing.

Question 7

What is the difference between a singer with backing tracks and a singer with live accompaniment?

Accepted Answer

A singer performing to backing tracks uses pre-recorded instrumental arrangements played through their PA system. These tracks are professionally produced to sound full and polished, giving the effect of a complete band behind the vocalist. This option is compact, quick to set up, and usually more affordable than hiring additional musicians. The sound is consistent and reliable, which works well in smaller venues or where space is limited.

A singer with live accompaniment performs alongside one or more musicians such as a pianist, guitarist, or small ensemble. This gives a more organic, responsive sound that can adapt to the room and the moment in a way that backing tracks cannot. The trade-off is higher cost, more equipment, more space, and slightly longer setup times. For many events, backing tracks are the practical and cost-effective choice, while live accompaniment suits occasions where you want a more premium or bespoke feel.

Question 8

What events are singers suitable for?

Accepted Answer

Singers are one of the most versatile entertainment options and are booked for a wide range of events. Weddings are the most common, but singers are also regularly hired for corporate dinners, awards ceremonies, product launches, Christmas parties, birthday celebrations, charity galas, funerals, and memorial services.

The style of singer you choose should match the event. A classical or opera singer suits formal occasions, church ceremonies, and elegant dinners. A jazz singer works well at drinks receptions, cocktail parties, and vintage-themed events. A pop or rock vocalist brings energy to evening receptions and parties. A country singer is a natural fit for rustic or barn weddings and themed events. Many singers are versatile enough to adjust their style across different parts of the same event.

Question 9

What type of music does a jazz singer perform?

Accepted Answer

A jazz singer typically performs standards from the Great American Songbook, including songs associated with Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Nat King Cole. Expect classics such as Fly Me to the Moon, The Way You Look Tonight, Summertime, and Feeling Good. Many jazz singers also include bossa nova, swing, soul-influenced jazz, and Rat Pack-era favourites in their repertoire.

Some jazz singers offer a more modern approach, performing jazz-influenced arrangements of contemporary pop and soul songs alongside the classic standards. This can work well at events where you want a jazz atmosphere but also want guests to recognise some of the material. Discuss your preferences with the singer when booking, as jazz repertoires can range from strictly traditional to very contemporary.

Question 10

Can I add musicians to a jazz singer booking?

Accepted Answer

Many jazz singers offer the option to upgrade from a solo performance to a duo, trio, or larger ensemble. A common combination is a jazz singer with a pianist, which gives a classic intimate jazz feel suited to cocktail hours and dinners. Adding a double bass creates a trio with a richer, more rhythmic sound. For larger events, a full jazz quartet or quintet with drums, saxophone, or trumpet can deliver a bigger performance.

The choice depends on your budget, the size of the venue, and the atmosphere you want. A solo jazz singer with backing tracks is the most affordable and compact option. A singer with one or two live musicians adds warmth and spontaneity. A full jazz ensemble creates a real event centrepiece. Many jazz singers work regularly with specific musicians and can quote for different lineup options when you enquire.

Question 11

How much does it cost to hire a jazz singer?

Accepted Answer

The cost of hiring a jazz singer depends on the length of performance, the lineup (solo with backing tracks, or with live musicians), the day of the week, and travel distance to your venue. The average price across our listed jazz singers is currently &pound;398, with prices ranging from &pound;90 to &pound;1534.

A solo jazz singer performing to backing tracks is the most affordable option. Adding a pianist, double bassist, or full jazz trio will increase the cost but creates a more authentic and atmospheric sound. Ask the singer for lineup options and pricing when making your enquiry.

Question 12

How much does a jazz singer cost in Surrey?

Accepted Answer

The cost of hiring a jazz singer in Surrey depends on the length of performance, the lineup, and the day of the week. The average price for jazz singers available in Surrey is currently &pound;398, with prices ranging from &pound;90 to &pound;1534.

Travel distance affects pricing, so singers based near your venue will generally quote lower travel expenses. Booking early is advisable for peak-season dates, particularly if you want a specific singer with live accompanying musicians.

Question 13

How far in advance should I book a jazz singer?

Accepted Answer

Booking a jazz singer as early as possible gives you the best choice of performers, especially for weekend events during the busy summer months. Jazz singers with live accompanying musicians may need additional lead time to coordinate availability, so booking well in advance is particularly worthwhile for duo or trio bookings.

Shorter-notice bookings are also possible, especially for solo performers. We have arranged jazz singer bookings with just a few days' notice. If your event is approaching, it is still worth enquiring.

Singers (Jazz) for hire in Surrey

Bekka Blake

Jazz & Soul Experience

Amélie Ashby

Cabaresque

Jo & The Bluenotes

Kate’s Jazz

The Retro Sisters

Aj

Mimi Rouge

Alice (Wedding Singer)

Simply Ciro

Singer and Entertainer

Lady Tone

A Classic Swinging Christmas

Adnaya

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How much does it cost to hire Singers (Jazz) available in Surrey?

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Reviews of Singers (Jazz) available in Surrey

Tracy Kim

The Feel Good Experience

Bekka Blake

London Wedding and Event Singer

The Scott Standards

Luka Watabe

Frequently asked questions

Hire a Jazz Singer in Surrey

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Jazz vocalists for weddings

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