Music/Band recommendations

Can't recommend anyone....but I can give some advice on choosing a band (I've worked with so many being a DJ)

1. Ask for demo cd or dvd or go see them performing.

2. Try to book 'all rounders' because if you have a band who specialise in one type of music, the chances are not all your guests are going to be entertained.

3. Talk to your venue about space available, set up time (bands often need more than the time taken to turn round a room....whereas DJs tend to have it off to a fine art). Bands can take up more space than you think. (I worked with a Beatles tribute band over Christmas. I set up behind them, and they plugged in through my PA. We managed to fit on a postage stamp, and as they were moving out of the way after their set, I was able to go straight into disco mode.....they were brilliant by the way)

4. Bands tend to do sets (most work on two 45 minute sets....but this varies)......so think about what entertainment you are having between sets and after they have finished.

5. First dance..........a band tends to have a limited repertoire.....the chances of your special song being on their playlist is remote

Just a few ideas....hope thats helpful.

Sandysounds,

You'll forgive me if I accuse you of sounding a little bit anti-bands and a lottle-bit pro-DJs - I don't believe that was her question - whether to have a band or a DJ. Her question was whether anyone knew any bands.

Tony

Depends what kind of music you are looking for?

My band was amazing and would travel, they are based in Hampshire? They are a swing band... http://www.fb-swing-band.co.uk/

If you are looking for someone to play something different am sure that someone will be able to recommend if you ask for something more specific.

ETA everyone of all ages were up dancing (from 5 to 85 years!) at our wedding with our swing band - so don't really agree that you have to go with a band that plays all kinds of music for everyone to enjoy it!

I don't know where you get that impression.....especially as my example of a band i worked with I put 'they were brilliant'.

Most people have been to a few weddings in their lifetime......I've been to hundreds in the last few years. I was merely trying to hilight things that many people might not think about....ie trying to be helpful.....and the intention was to be impartial.

I've been at weddings where I've worked alongside bands and the atmosphere has been electric and a brilliant night.....with both DJ and band working well together, no breaks and smooth transition between entertainers.....and co-operation (ie DJ didn't play anything on the bands playlist).....and guests had a thoroughly enjoyable time. Likewise.....I've seen some utter disasters whereby the bride has asked me to carry on during the bands break and the band never came on to do their second set (too loud, not playing suitable music, sound quality poor, inappropriate banter.)

If your intention was to be impartial then fair enough, but I'm afraid it really didn't come across that way. Let's say no more about it and hijack this thread no further.

Peppermint - Have a look at funktydumpty - (google them) - I was at a wedding in south west they were playing and I thought they were excellent (they're not in any way shape or form related to me)

best

Tony

Hi Peppermint,

There's an article here that may prove useful during your search: Musical Entertainment.

Excellent article and advice.

I agree with all those points.....especially those referring to DJs. And yes....I do all the things listed except I have £**** PLI. I am unable to allow people to view me because I only do weddings and I think it very inappropriate to invite someone along to someone elses wedding. Also....when I'm doing a wedding I am concentrating solely on that bride and groom and their guests........it would be wrong to be using that time to promote myself to someone else. Also....weddings are very individual. Your DJ should tailor your entertainment to suit you.....and no two weddings should be the same (hence the importance of meeting up prior to the event to make sure your provider fully understands and is able to cater for your requirements).

I can recommend The Motor City Party Band - they were excellent at my wedding and the guests all commented on how good they were

https://musicforlondon.co.uk/motown-bands-london/motown-band-london-uk/rates_wedding_band_bookings.htm