How much does a wedding band cost in the UK?

£1,500–£3,500 for a 4–5 piece function band including PA, two live sets and DJ playlist between sets.

Are cheaper bands worse?

Not always, but under £1,200 for a 4-piece usually means part-timers with a home PA. Fine for a house party, risky for a wedding.

Why do corporate gigs cost more than weddings?

Client-side budgets are bigger and stakes are higher — brands recover the cost through employee retention, PR and client entertainment.

Do band fees include VAT?

Usually not — most solo musicians are under the VAT threshold. Bigger bands and agencies are VAT-registered; ask upfront.

Is a deposit refundable?

Generally no. Once the date is held, other work is turned away. Get the cancellation ladder in writing.

How Much Does It Cost to Book a Band in the UK?

In the UK in 2026, a 4–5 piece function band for a wedding or corporate event costs £1,500–£3,500. Bigger line-ups with brass push £3,500–£6,500. Tribute acts £700–£4,500. Named headline acts start at £5,000 and rise past £100,000.

6 min read·Jul 10, 2026

By event type

Wedding (4–5 piece + PA + DJ set): £1,800–£3,500
Corporate party (same lineup): £2,200–£4,500
Christmas party (Fri/Sat in December): £2,800–£6,000
Awards ceremony support act: £1,500–£4,000
Brand activation / product launch: £3,000–£15,000+

By line-up size

Duo (acoustic): £500–£1,200
Trio: £800–£2,000
4-piece: £1,500–£3,000
5-piece: £2,000–£3,800
6–8 piece with brass: £3,000–£6,500

What's usually included

Two 45-minute live sets
PA up to 150 guests
DJ playlist between sets
Setup, soundcheck, breakdown
Travel within 100 miles (or set radius)

What isn't

Overtime (£75–£150 per extra 15 minutes)
Long-distance travel and overnight
Upgraded PA for rooms over 200
Extra musicians or bespoke arrangements

"The difference between a £1,500 band and a £3,000 band isn't the setlist. It's rehearsal, PA quality, and the certainty they'll turn up sober and on time."

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FAQ

Frequently asked

How much does a wedding band cost in the UK?: £1,500–£3,500 for a 4–5 piece function band including PA, two live sets and DJ playlist between sets.
Are cheaper bands worse?: Not always, but under £1,200 for a 4-piece usually means part-timers with a home PA. Fine for a house party, risky for a wedding.
Why do corporate gigs cost more than weddings?: Client-side budgets are bigger and stakes are higher — brands recover the cost through employee retention, PR and client entertainment.
Do band fees include VAT?: Usually not — most solo musicians are under the VAT threshold. Bigger bands and agencies are VAT-registered; ask upfront.
Is a deposit refundable?: Generally no. Once the date is held, other work is turned away. Get the cancellation ladder in writing.

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