What's included in the price?
Berkshire function bands come fully equipped with all the necessary equipment for your event, including a PA system and, in many cases, stage lighting to enhance the live performance.
Typically, Hampshire cover bands entertain guests with two sets lasting 60 minutes each, and they often provide a carefully selected playlist of party or ambient music to keep the atmosphere alive during breaks, played through their PA system.
The standard pricing for bands in Berkshire is typically based on a start time of 6 pm, with performances concluding around midnight. However, there's room for flexibility to tailor the schedule according to your specific requirements. Some bands are even open to special requests, such as learning and performing a unique song for a wedding couple's first dance.
Additionally, many Berkshire bands offer extra services to enhance your event experience. These may include expanding the band with additional musicians, DJ packages, live jazz or acoustic performances during cocktail receptions, upgrades to PA systems and lighting setups, photo booths, and light-up letter displays. With these additional options, Berkshire bands can provide comprehensive entertainment for a full day and night of memorable partying.
Your Berkshire band will also provide certificates for PAT testing and Public Liability Insurance.
Every booking through Alive Network includes personalised support from your dedicated entertainment coordinator, a secure contract for your peace of mind, and 24/7 emergency assistance in case of unforeseen incidents like accidents or illnesses.
What are the costs associated with booking a band in Berkshire, and how can expenses be minimised?
The costs linked to hiring a band in Berkshire can vary depending on several factors. In 2025, the average fees for Berkshire bands amounted to approximately £1,779. However, these prices can fluctuate based on considerations such as the band's size, the duration of their performance, the distance they need to travel, and their level of expertise.
Berkshire function bands originating from outside the area often have higher fees due to factors like travel time, fuel charges, and accommodation expenses. Within our range of Berkshire function bands, options start from as low as £327 and extend up to £25,365 for premier show bands.
The pricing for a band performing at a wedding on a summer Saturday might be higher compared to their rates for an informal evening of live music at a nearby venue on a weekday night. Prices are influenced by seasonal demand and the specific type of live entertainment requested.
To cut down on costs, you can opt for a smaller ensemble such as a solo vocalist, singer-guitarist, pianist, duo, or trio. Many bands also offer a DJ service or curated playlist during breaks, which eliminates the need for a separate DJ. The most popular band setup often involves a quartet, reminiscent of The Beatles!
What space and other requirements are necessary for a band?
To accommodate a four-piece function band in Berkshire, it's recommended to allocate an area around five meters wide and four meters deep. This space should comfortably fit the band's equipment, including their drum kit, amplifiers, and musicians, as well as their PA system and stage lighting. Additionally, having at least two double plug sockets nearby is advisable for powering their equipment.
For outdoor performances, it's essential to provide sturdy overhead and side protection for the performance area to shield the equipment from adverse weather conditions like wind and rain, ensuring it remains dry and secure.
It's customary to provide refreshments for the band, and they would appreciate access to a secure area for their preparations if possible.
What genres of music do Berkshire function bands typically perform, and can I have input on song selection?
Berkshire function bands offer a varied repertoire, featuring popular and lively tunes spanning from the 1950s to contemporary hits. Their performances are known for their vibrant energy, appealing to guests of all ages and fostering a lively atmosphere that encourages dancing.
Each band's profile page showcases their song list, encompassing tracks by a variety of artists 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, Chuck Berry, and many more.
Aside from traditional rock and pop, these bands are versatile in performing genres like alternative rock, contemporary British music, folk reminiscent of Mumford & Sons, funk, soul & Motown, R&B, and rock and roll. Essentially, they're equipped to cover any musical style that guarantees an enthusiastic dance floor!
While jazz bands have a distinct musical style, many function bands in Berkshire can include jazz tunes in their repertoire upon request.
Berkshire bands are open to your song preferences from their repertoire, and some are willing to accommodate special requests or learn and perform a unique first dance song tailored to your event.
Is it possible to attend a live performance by the band before confirming the booking?
Unfortunately, unless you've had the opportunity to witness a band's performance at a wedding or another event, it's typically not feasible to experience a live show before making a booking. High-quality party bands in Berkshire usually do not perform at public shows in local venues or pubs, and it wouldn't be practical for us to invite you to private events hosted by other clients. However, you can explore reviews provided by past clients on each band's profile page, browse through event photos, and watch videos. We invest significant effort into sourcing the best local bands in Berkshire, ensuring an exceptional evening of entertainment that you can confidently rely on.
Can I hire a band that operates near me in Berkshire?
Alive Network offers a diverse selection of talented party musicians in Berkshire, with an extensive roster of over 500 bands based locally.
Discover the exceptional live party bands located in various areas of Berkshire, including Bracknell, Eton, Maidenhead, Newbury, Reading, Slough, Thatcham, Windsor, Wokingham.
Could you share details about the venues you've collaborated with in Berkshire?
We've had the honour of providing live music and entertainment for events at Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club, Wasing Park, Royal Berkshire Hotel, Wokefield Estate, Lillibrooke Manor, The Olde Bell, Easthampstead Park, Stirrups Country House Hotel, Trunkwell House, The Elvetham, Ufton Court, Audleys Wood Hotel, Danesfield House Hotel and Spa, The Vineyard, and numerous other venues in Berkshire.
If your event venue has specific requirements for live performances, please feel free to discuss them with your dedicated entertainment coordinator when you're ready to make an enquiry.
What are the benefits of booking a live band in Berkshire through Alive Network?
We showcase the finest function bands in Berkshire and assure you that we can meet or exceed any similar price quote for the same band.
We understand the significance of your event and the confidence you place in us. With our extensive 24-year history in arranging weddings, parties, corporate events, and hospitality venues, we have accumulated over 50,000 five-star reviews. We provide you with peace of mind through a secure booking agreement and round-the-clock 24/7 emergency assistance in case of unexpected incidents such as accidents or illnesses.
How can you reduce expenses when hiring a band in Berkshire?
Before confirming the inclusion of extra musicians for background music earlier in the day, ensure that the current band members are unable to provide this service to avoid additional charges like travel expenses.
If your event date isn't set, consider booking a weekday or selecting a winter date in Berkshire to benefit from more competitive rates.
To cut costs, consider booking a band based within Berkshire to avoid travel and accommodation expenses. Alive Network offers a diverse range of bands located in different key towns and cities across Berkshire.
