What does the price include?
Bristol function bands arrive fully equipped with all essential gear, including PA systems and, in most cases, stage lighting, ensuring an exceptional live performance at your event.
Typically, cover bands in Bristol deliver two sets lasting 60 minutes each, often accompanied by a thoughtfully selected playlist of party or ambient music played through their PA system during breaks.
The standard fee for hiring bands in Bristol 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 requirements. Some bands are even open to accommodating special requests, such as learning and performing a unique song for the first dance at weddings.
Additionally, many Bristol bands offer various extras to enhance your event. These could include expanding the band with additional members for a larger ensemble, DJ packages, live jazz or acoustic performances during a cocktail reception, improvements to PA systems and lighting arrangements, photo booths, and illuminated letter displays. With these additional options, our Bristol based bands can provide everything needed for a comprehensive day and evening of exceptional party entertainment.
Also, all of our bands in Bristol supply certificates 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 such as accidents or illnesses.
What is the cost range for hiring a band in Bristol?
In 2025, the average expense for booking bands in Bristol hovered around £1,779, with prices varying depending on factors like band size, duration of the performance, travel distance to the venue, and level of expertise.
Bands traveling from outside the area typically face higher costs due to travel time, fuel expenses, and accommodation. Our assortment of Bristol-based bands ranges from £327 to £25,365 for top-tier show bands.
A band hired for a summer Saturday wedding is likely to cost more compared to their rates for an out-of-season event or a performance at a nearby venue on a Thursday night. Costs are influenced by seasonal demand and the specific type of live entertainment desired.
To reduce expenses, consider selecting a smaller group like a solo vocalist, singer-guitarist, pianist, duo, or trio. Additionally, many bands provide a DJ service or curated playlist during breaks, eliminating the need for a separate DJ. The popular band configuration often involves a quartet, reminiscent of The Beatles!
What are the space and other requirements needed for a band?
To accommodate a four-piece function band in Bristol, a stage area measuring approximately five meters wide and four meters deep is essential to provide adequate space. This area should allow enough room for the band's drum kit, amplifiers, musicians, as well as their PA system and stage lighting. Also, it's crucial to have at least two double plug sockets located in close proximity to the performance area.
For outdoor performances, ensuring sturdy overhead and side protection for the performance area is important to shield the equipment from wind gusts and precipitation, ensuring its safety and preventing any damage caused by moisture.
It's customary to provide refreshments for the band, and if possible, they would appreciate access to a secure and private area for their preparations.
What types of music do Bristol function bands typically perform, and can I influence song selection?
Bristol function bands offer a wide-ranging repertoire, encompassing popular hits and lively party tunes spanning from the 1950s to modern tracks. Renowned for their dynamic performances, these bands cater to guests of all ages, fostering an energetic atmosphere that encourages dancing.
You can browse through each band's song list on their profile page to explore the artists they cover. However, a typical function band's playlist may include tracks by well-known 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, and Chuck Berry, among others.
In addition to mainstream rock and pop, bands can also perform hits from various genres including indie rock, British pop, folk reminiscent of Mumford & Sons, funk, soul & Motown, R&B, and classic rock and roll. Essentially, they're capable of delivering any musical style that'll get your guests on their feet!
Although jazz bands have their distinct musical style, many function bands in Bristol can incorporate jazz tunes into their repertoire if desired.
All of our Bristol bands are eager to accommodate your preferences, allowing you to choose your favourite songs from their repertoire. Also, many are open to learning special requests or performing a unique first dance song tailored just for you.
Is it possible to watch a live performance by the band before confirming a booking?
Regrettably, it's unlikely that you'll have the opportunity to witness a band's live performance unless you've previously attended one of their shows at a wedding or event. Typically, premier party bands in Bristol don't often perform public shows at local venues or pubs, and it wouldn't be feasible for us to invite you to private events hosted by other customers. However, you can peruse reviews from previous clients on each band's profile page, view event photos, and watch videos. We invest considerable effort into sourcing the finest local bands in Bristol, ensuring an exceptional evening of entertainment you can trust entirely.
Can I hire a band that's nearby in Bristol?
Alive Network presents an extensive array of outstanding party entertainers in Bristol, showcasing a diverse selection of over 500 bands located in your vicinity.
Discover the exceptional live function bands located in Bath, Weston-super-Mare, Taunton, Chippenham, Gloucester, Swindon, Newport, Cardiff, Bridgwater, Frome, Cheltenham, Stroud, Clevedon, Nailsea, Portishead, Keynsham, Thornbury, Yate, Radstock, and Midsomer Norton, around and within Bristol.
Can you share details about the venues in Bristol where you have provided entertainment?
We've had the privilege of providing live music and entertainment for events at Ashton Court Estate, Bristol Harbour Hotel, Leigh Court, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, The Square Club, SS Great Britain, Old Down Estate, Arnos Vale Cemetery, The Clifton Pavilion, Bristol Zoo Gardens, and many other venues in Bristol.
If you have any specific requests or requirements regarding live entertainment at your chosen venue, please feel free to discuss them with your dedicated entertainment coordinator when you're ready to enquire.
What are the advantages of booking a live band in Bristol through Alive Network?
We offer the best function bands in Bristol and guarantee that we can meet or surpass any comparable price quote for the same band.
We understand the significance of your event and the trust you have placed in us. With our extensive 24-year background in arranging weddings, gatherings, corporate functions, and hospitality venues, we have accumulated more than 50,000 five-star ratings. We provide you with reassurance through a secure reservation agreement and round-the-clock 24/7 emergency support in case of unexpected incidents such as accidents or illnesses.
What are some ways to reduce expenses when hiring a Bristol band?
Before finalising your decision to include additional instrumentalists for background music during the early part of the day, please verify that the existing members of the band aren’t capable of providing this service. This will help you avoid incurring supplementary charges, such as travel expenses for extra performers.
If you haven't finalised the date for your occasion, you may want to consider reserving a weekday or selecting a date during the winter season in Bristol to benefit from the most competitive rates.
To minimise expenses, it is advisable to book a band that is located in Bristol, thereby avoiding the costs of travel and accommodation. At Alive Network, we offer a wide range of bands based in different key towns and cities throughout Bristol.
