How much does is cost to hire a band in Durham?
The average cost to hire bands in Durham for 2025 was £1,810, but prices vary depending on the number of members in the band, how long you want them to perform for, travel distance to your event, and how experienced the band are.
Bands travelling from out of the area will usually charge more than local bands, due to travel time, fuel costs and accommodation. We have Durham function bands costing from as little as £327 all the way up to £25,365 for the leading show bands.
A band providing wedding entertainment on a summer Saturday is also likely to charge more than they would for an informal evening of live music at a local venue on a Thursday night. Fee's tend to be based on seasonal demand and the type of live entertainment required.
You can save money by booking a smaller band such as a solo vocalist, singer guitarist, pianist, duo or a 3-piece. Also keep in mind that most bands offer a DJ service / playlist between sets, and this can save you the cost of a separate DJ. The most common size of band booked is a 4-piece band, like The Beatles!
What's included in the price?
Function bands will provide all the equipment they need to perform at your event, including a PA system and in most cases, some stage lighting for the perfect live show.
The standard performance time for cover bands in Durham is 2 x 60 minute sets, and it's normal for bands to provide a playlist of party music or background music which would run through their PA system whilst they're not performing.
Standard prices are usually based on an arrival time of 6pm, with the final performance finishing at midnight, but you can tailor the timings to suit your needs. Some bands will also learn a special request, such a first dance for wedding couples.
Many Durham bands also offer a range of upgrades including additional members for a bigger line-up, DJ packages, jazz or acoustic sets for a drinks reception, PA / lighting upgrades, photo-booths and light-up letters. Many bands can provide everything you need for an entire day and night of amazing party entertainment.
Your band will also provide PAT and Public Liability Insurance certificates.
Every booking made with Alive Network also benefits from one-to-one support from your dedicated entertainment coordinator, a secure contract for your peace of mind, and 24/7 emergency cover in case of accident or illness.
How much space and what other requirements will a band need?
A function band with four members will need an area approximately five meters wide by four meters deep. This should be enough space to accommodate their drum kit, amplifiers, the musicians, plus their PA system and stage lights. The band will also need at least two double plug sockets in close proximity to the performance area.
If performing outdoors, the band will need need robust cover overhead and to the sides of the performance area. This is to ensure protection from wind and rain. It's important that their electrical equipment doesn't get wet!
It is usual to provide a meal and refreshments for your band, and they will also appreciate a secure dressing room if at all possible.
What kind of music do Durham function bands play and can I chose the songs?
Function bands cover a wide range of music, including chart hits and party anthems from the 1950s to the present day. It's usually a very high energy show, perfect for guests of all ages, and great for dancing.
You can view each band's repertoire on their profile page to see what songs they play, but a standard function band set list will include songs from acts like 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 Stones, Elvis, Buddy Holly and Chuck Berry amongst many others.
As well as rock and pop classics, bands are able to perform hits from a range of genres, such as indie rock, brit pop, Mumford style folk, funk, soul and Motown, rnb and rock n roll. Pretty much any type of music that's going to get your guests dancing!
Although jazz bands are quite different in style, many party bands can also provide a set of jazz music if required.
Most bands will be happy for you to pick your favourite songs from their repertoire, and many will also learn a special request or first dance.
Can I see the band live before I book?
Unfortunately, unless you've seen a band at a friends wedding or party, it's not usually possible to see a band live before booking. The best Durham party bands don't tend to play public shows at local venues or pubs, and it wouldn't be possible for us to invite you to other customer's private events. However, you can read reviews by previous customers on each band's profile page, see photos from events, and watch videos. We make a huge effort to source the best local bands, so you can be 100% sure of an amazing night's entertainment.
Can I hire a band near me?
Alive Network represents the best party musicians in Durham, with over 500 bands available in your local area.
Discover the best live party bands based in Annfield Plain, Barnard Castle, Bedlington, Billingham, Bishop Auckland, Blaydon, Blyth, Brandon, Chester-Le-Street, Consett, Crook, Darlington, Edmondbyers, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Hebburn, Hetton-Le-Hole, Houghton-Le-Spring, Jarrow, Longbenton, Meadow Well, Middlesbrough, Newton Aycliffe, Peterlee, Ponteland, Prudhoe, Redcar, Rowlands Gill, Ryton, Seaham, Shildon, South Shields, Spennymoor, Stanley, Stockton-on-Tees, Sunderland, Tow Law, Tynemouth, Wallsend, Washington, Whickham, Whitley Bay, Willington.
Why should I book a live band with Alive Network?
We represent the very best function bands Durham has to offer, and we guarantee to match or beat any like-for-like quote for the same band.
We understand how important your event is, and how much trust you're placing in us. From weddings and parties to corporate events and hospitality venues, we've been doing this for 24 years, and we've earned over 50,000 five star reviews. We bring that peace of mind to you and your event, with a secure booking contract and 24/7 emergency cover in case of accident or illness.
