What's included in the price?
Cardiff function bands arrive fully equipped with all the essential gear, such as PA systems and, in most cases, stage lighting, ensuring a top-notch live performance at your event.
Typically, Cardiff cover bands deliver two sets lasting 60 minutes each, often complemented by a carefully selected playlist of party or background music played through their PA system during breaks.
The standard fee for hiring bands in Cardiff is calculated based on a start time of 6 pm, with performances wrapping up around midnight. However, you have the flexibility to customise the schedule to suit your specific needs. Some bands are even open to accommodating special requests, such as learning and performing your chosen song for the first dance at weddings.
Many of our bands offer additional enhancements to elevate your event experience. These could include expanding the band with additional members for a larger ensemble, DJ packages, live jazz or acoustic performances during a drinks reception, upgrades to PA systems and lighting arrangements, photo booths, and illuminated letter displays. With these added touches, our Cardiff-based bands can provide everything needed for a comprehensive day and evening of exceptional party entertainment.
All of our bands in Cardiff provide certifications for PAT testing and Public Liability Insurance as part of their service.
Every booking through Alive Network includes personalised assistance from your dedicated entertainment coordinator, a secure contract for your peace of mind, and 24/7 emergency support in case of unforeseen incidents like accidents or illnesses.
What's the price range for hiring a band in Cardiff?
In 2025, the typical cost of hiring bands in Cardiff averaged approximately £1,779, though this can vary based on factors such as band size, duration of performance, travel distance to the venue, and level of expertise.
Bands coming from outside the region often have higher expenses due to factors like travel time, fuel costs, and accommodation. Among our selection of Cardiff-based bands, prices range from £327 to £25,365 for top-tier show bands.
For a Saturday wedding during the peak summer season, anticipate higher prices compared to off-peak events or performances at local venues on weekdays. Pricing fluctuates based on seasonal demand and the specific type of live entertainment desired.
To manage costs, consider hiring a smaller group such as a solo singer, singer-guitarist, pianist, duo, or trio. Many bands offer additional services like a DJ service or curated playlist during breaks, eliminating the need for a separate DJ. A quartet setup, reminiscent of The Beatles, is a popular choice among clients!
What space do they need, and what are their other requirements?
For a four-piece function band in Cardiff, it's recommended to designate a stage area of around five meters wide and four meters deep to ensure adequate space. This area should comfortably accommodate the band's drum kit, amplifiers, musicians, as well as their PA system and stage lighting. Additionally, having at least two double electrical sockets nearby is crucial to power their equipment efficiently.
When arranging outdoor performances, it's essential to provide robust overhead and side protection for the performance area to shield the equipment from strong winds and rain, ensuring its protection against any potential moisture damage.
Providing refreshments for the band is customary, and if feasible, they would appreciate access to a secure and private area for their preparations.
What music styles do Cardiff function bands typically play, and can I shape the song choices?
Cardiff function bands present a rich tapestry of musical genres, spanning from enduring classics to modern hits, ensuring a dynamic blend to suit all preferences. Renowned for their vibrant performances, these bands create an energetic ambiance that entices guests of all ages onto the dance floor.
Delve into the repertoire of each band on their profile page to explore the range of artists they interpret. However, anticipate a repertoire featuring tracks from acclaimed musicians like The Killers, Harry Styles, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, The Weeknd, Taylor Swift, Adele, Arctic Monkeys, Beyoncé, 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.
In addition to mainstream rock and pop, Cardiff bands showcase versatility, delving into indie rock, British pop, folk reminiscent of Mumford & Sons, funk, soul & Motown, R&B, and classic rock and roll. They effortlessly adapt to any musical genre, ensuring your event is an unforgettable experience!
While jazz bands maintain their distinct sound, many function bands in Cardiff are open to incorporating jazz elements into their repertoire upon request.
All our Cardiff bands are eager to accommodate your preferences, enabling you to curate your preferred songs from their repertoire. Moreover, many are enthusiastic about learning special requests, including performing your chosen first dance tune.
Can I attend a live performance by the band before confirming my booking?
Regrettably, it's improbable that you'll have the chance to witness a band's live performance unless you've previously attended one of their shows at a wedding or event. Typically, top-tier party bands in Cardiff seldom perform at public venues or pubs, making it impractical for us to invite you to private functions hosted by other clients. However, you can explore reviews from previous clients on each band's profile page, browse through event photos, and watch videos. We exert significant effort in selecting the finest local bands in Cardiff, ensuring an exceptional evening of entertainment that you can confidently trust.
Can I find a band that's local to Cardiff?
Alive Network offers a diverse range of exceptional party entertainers in Cardiff, featuring over 500 bands located nearby.
Explore the fantastic live function bands situated in Newport, Swansea, Bridgend, Barry, Pontypridd, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Cwmbran, Port Talbot, Pontypool, Aberdare, Penarth, Risca, Maesteg, and Porthcawl, all within Cardiff.
Could you provide information about the venues in Cardiff where you've supplied entertainment?
We've had the honour of providing live music and entertainment for events at Bute Park, Cardiff City Hall, Cardiff Castle, Llandaff Cathedral, the National Museum Cardiff, Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay Barrage, the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff University Students' Union, and numerous other venues in Cardiff.
Should you have any specific preferences or needs concerning live entertainment at your selected venue, please don't hesitate to communicate them with your designated entertainment coordinator when you're prepared to make an enquiry.
Why choose Alive Network for your Cardiff event?
Selecting a live band through Alive Network for your Cardiff event comes with numerous benefits. We pride ourselves on offering top-tier function bands in Cardiff and ensuring that we can match or exceed any comparable price quote for the same band.
We understand the importance of your special occasion and the trust you've placed in us. With our extensive 24-year history in organizing weddings, functions, corporate events, and hospitality venues, we've amassed over 50,000 five-star reviews from satisfied clients. To provide you with peace of mind, we offer a secure booking agreement and round-the-clock 24/7 emergency assistance in case of unforeseen incidents such as accidents or illnesses.
What are some ways to save on expenses when booking a band in Cardiff?
Ensure cost efficiency by confirming if the existing band members can provide background music earlier in the day before adding extra musicians. This can help avoid additional expenses such as travel costs for additional performers.
Opt for flexibility with your event date by considering weekdays or winter months in Cardiff, which often offer more budget-friendly rates.
Minimise costs by selecting a Cardiff-based band to eliminate travel and accommodation expenses. Alive Network presents a diverse selection of bands located in various key areas throughout Cardiff.
