What is the price range for Hampshire bands for hire?
The average price to book Hampshire bands in 2025 was £1,936, with costs varying depending on the band's size, performance duration, travel distance to the event, and level of expertise.
Function bands coming from outside the region typically have higher charges due to travel time, fuel expenses, and accommodation costs. Our range of live bands in Hampshire starts from as little as £327 and goes up to £25,365 for the leading show bands.
A band providing wedding entertainment on a summer Saturday is also likely to have higher costs compared to their fees for a casual evening of live music at a nearby location on a Thursday night. Prices are influenced by the demand during different seasons and the specific type of live entertainment required.
You can save costs by booking a smaller group such as a solo singer, singer-guitarist, pianist, duo, or a trio. Additionally, it's worth considering that many bands offer a DJ service or playlist during breaks, which can eliminate the need for a separate DJ. The most popular band size booked is a 4-piece band, reminiscent of The Beatles!
What does the price include?
Hampshire function bands will come prepared with all the necessary equipment for your event, including a PA system and, in most instances, stage lighting to ensure an exceptional live performance.
The usual duration for performances by cover bands for hire is 2 sets of 60 minutes each, and it is common for the bands to provide a curated playlist of party or background music that will be played through their PA system during their breaks.
The typical cost to hire leading cover bands is based on a start time of 6pm, with the performance concluding at midnight. However, you have the flexibility to customize the schedule to meet your specific needs. Some bands are also willing to accommodate special requests, such as learning and performing a unique song for the first dance of wedding couples.
Many of our Hampshire bands can also provide a range of additional options, including the opportunity to expand the band with more members for a larger lineup, DJ packages, jazz or acoustic sets for a cocktail reception, upgrades to PA systems and lighting, photo booths, and illuminated letters. These bands can provide everything you need for a complete day and night of fantastic party entertainment.
Your Hampshire band will also supply certificates for PAT testing and Public Liability Insurance.
All bookings made with Alive Network also come with individualized support from your assigned entertainment coordinator, a secure agreement to guarantee your peace of mind, and continuous emergency coverage 24/7 in case of unexpected incidents such as accidents or illnesses.
What are the space and other specifications that a band will require?
To adequately accommodate a four-member function band, an area measuring approximately five meters wide by four meters deep is necessary. This space should provide enough room for the band's drum kit, amplifiers, musicians, as well as their PA system and stage lights. Additionally, it is important to have at least two double plug sockets in close proximity to the performance area.
If the band is playing in an outdoor setting, it is important to have durable overhead and side covering for the performance area. This is necessary to shield the equipment from wind and rain, ensuring its safety and preventing any damage caused by moisture.
Providing a meal and beverages for the band is a common practice, and if feasible, they would appreciate having a secure dressing area.
What genre of music do Hampshire function bands perform, and can I have control over the song selection?
Function bands offer a wide range of music, including popular hits and lively party anthems spanning from the 1950s to the present day. Their live shows are known for their high energy and are suitable for guests of all ages, providing a vibrant atmosphere that encourages dancing and gets the party started.
You can check the song selection that each band plays on their profile page to see the artists they cover, but a typical repertoire for a function band includes songs by renowned musicians such as The Killers, Harry Styles, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, The Weeknd, Taylor Swift, Adele, Arctic Monkeys, Beyonce, Oasis, Coldplay, Kings of Leon, The Jam, Bryan Adams, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry, among others.
Apart from rock and pop favorites, bands are capable of delivering popular hits from a variety of music genres, such as indie rock, British pop, folk reminiscent of Mumford & Sons, funk, soul, Motown, R&B, and rock and roll. Essentially, they can perform any style of music that will get your guests up and dancing!
While jazz bands have a unique musical style, several party bands can also deliver a selection of jazz tunes if desired.
Bands are able to perform your favorite songs from their repertoire, and many are also open to learning a special request or performing a first dance song just for you. However, if you have a favourite artist, and you want a lot of songs by them, you might want to consider a tribute band instead.
Is it feasible to watch a live performance by the band prior to confirming a booking?
Unfortunately, unless you have had the opportunity to witness a band perform at a wedding or gathering, it is typically not viable to experience a live performance prior to making a booking. The best party bands do not generally perform at public shows in local venues or pubs, and it would not be feasible for us to extend an invitation to private events held by other customers. However, you can explore reviews left by previous clients on the profile page of each band, view photographs from events, and watch videos. We dedicate extensive effort to sourcing the best bands Hampshire has to offer, ensuring a phenomenal evening of entertainment that you can have complete confidence in.
Is it possible to hire a band near me?
Alive Network represents the very best local cover bands in Hampshire, featuring a diverse range of over 500 bands located in your area.
Discover the top-notch live party bands located in Aldershot, Alton, Andover, Basingstoke, Bordon, Eastleigh, Emsworth, Fareham, Farnborough, Fleet, Fordingbridge, Gosport, Havant, Horndean, Lymington, Petersfield, Portsmouth, Ringwood, Romsey, Southampton, Totton, Winchester, within Hampshire.
Why should I choose Alive Network to book a live band?
We represent the UK's very best professional musicians including the finest function bands Hampshire has available, and we assure you that we can meet or exceed any similar price quote for the same band.
We recognise the importance of your event and the level of trust you have in us. With our extensive 24-year experience in organizing weddings, parties, corporate events, and hospitality venues, we have garnered over 50,000 five-star reviews. We offer you peace of mind through a secure booking contract and continuous 24/7 emergency coverage in case of unforeseen circumstances like accidents or illnesses.
How can we cut costs on our Hampshire band?
Before confirming your choice to add extra musicians for background music in the afternoon, ensure that the current band members are able to offer this service. This will help you avoid incurring additional expenses, such as travel costs.
If you have not yet chosen the date for your event, you can consider booking a weekday or a date during the winter season to take advantage of the best prices available in Hampshire.
To keep costs down, it's recommended to hire a band that is local to Hampshire, thus avoiding travel and accommodation expenses. At Alive Network, we have a diverse selection of bands based in various major towns and cities across Hampshire.
