How to Book a Band for a Private Party
Looking to host a party? Many fine details need to come together to make it memorable, one of which is picking the perfect party band. Typically, booking party bands sets the tone right, energizes your guests, and creates lasting memories.
The first step to booking a band for a private party is to determine your budget. This will help you in your selection process.
At Liv Entertainment, we have a range of professional live bands for hire that can tailor their performances to your needs. From our cocktail bands to our jazz bands, we guarantee we have the best party bands available to make your party an unforgettable one. Contact us now for a free consultation.
This blog will serve as a guide on the process of booking a party band. It will also help you understand the different types of bands available and give you an idea of the average cost of booking a band.
How To Find and Book a Band for a Private Party
Before hosting a party, you should decide on the theme of the event. With that in mind, you have to find and book a that will deliver on the energy you envision.
It is important to be intentional about this process as the right band elevates the atmosphere. While picking a band for your party, consider the event type, guest preferences, venue and budget.
1. Define Your Event Characteristics
Your guest list plays a huge role in your selection process as the musical preferences of your guests influences the party bands you choose. Another event characteristic to consider would be the event type as different events call for different types of bands.
For example, cover bands or jazz bands are perfect for providing a festive atmosphere for birthday parties and anniversaries, while cocktail bands are suitable for corporate events as they create a sophisticated ambiance. Similarly, if you’re going for a themed party, choose a band that matches the theme. For example, we would recommend you go for a rock band if you’re hosting a retro-themed party.
Another factor to define before looking for a band is the party’s venue. Keep in mind that larger venues may require a full band with amplification. However, smaller venues would mean more intimate settings, which might be best suited for acoustic bands.
Additionally, you need to determine your budget for the band. While doing this, consider not only their fee but also potential additional costs like accommodations and technical needs.
2. Search Potential Bands
You have an array of options when it comes to choosing party bands. The theme of your party is what you should consider while selecting a band.
For example, Jazz bands are perfect for elegant and sophisticated events. Our bands, like Janiero and Mood, can range from smooth jazz to more upbeat swing styles. On the other hand, cover bands play popular songs from artists and are perfect for a wide range of events. The difference between cover bands and tribute bands is that tribute bands specialize in imitating one specific band or artist, while cover bands play hits from various artists. Some top-performing cover bands include Rogue, Ararat, and Legendary.
You also have the option of cocktail bands that are ideal for a relaxed and upscale atmosphere. These cocktail bands often play a mix of genres to suit your party or corporate event. Also, there are acoustic bands that offer a more intimate and raw sound. This type of band is perfect for smaller venues or laid-back gatherings. But if you are looking for a high-energy band with a wide selection of songs, you should go for rock bands. They create an energetic atmosphere that keeps guests on the dance floor.
In addition, you can also decide to go with the option of a DJ for your party. A DJ can offer a broad selection of music and adapt quickly to the crowd’s preferences. However, they lack the live music performance element that a band provides.
3. Check Out the Band’s Reviews
Before selecting a particular band, ensure that the band has experience performing at private parties. This assures you that they understand how to engage an audience.
During your selection process, look at the band’s setlist and make sure it includes songs that will appeal to your guests. Furthermore, assess the band’s willingness to learn new songs or adjust their setlist to meet your preferences. You should also watch videos of their performances to give you a sense of their style and stage presence.
4. Contact a Band and Determine the Details
Before making a final decision, check the band’s availability for your event date early in the planning process. While contacting any band, ensure to discuss the band’s fee and ensure it fits within your budget. This should include any additional costs such as travel, accommodation, and technical requirements.
It is also important to understand the band’s technical needs, including sound systems, lighting, and stage setup. This ensures your venue can accommodate them.
5. Finalize the Booking
To finalize the booking, ensure all terms are clearly outlined in a contract. The contract should include performance times, breaks, payment terms, and any special requests. Then, be ready to pay a deposit to secure the booking.
Additionally, maintain open communication with the band leading up to the event to confirm all details and address any last-minute changes.
The Average Cost of Booking a Band for a Private Party
The cost to hire a band for a party ranges from $1,000 – $15,000. It depends on factors like band size, performance duration, experience and reputation, etc.
Typically, larger bands with more band members will charge higher fees than a solar performer or duo. Similarly, the length of the performance can impact the cost. Bands usually have set rates for different durations (e.g., 2 hours, 4 hours)., and longer performances will generally cost more.
The experience and reputation of the band also affect the pricing as bands with a strong reputation and extensive experience often charge higher rates. These popular bands bring professionalism and a polished performance that can be worth the extra cost. Furthermore, booking during peak times such as weekends, holidays, and prime evening hours can command higher prices; booking a band during off-peak times may reduce costs.
In addition, if the band needs to travel a significant distance to your event, you may need to cover travel expenses and accommodation. Thus, local bands may be more cost-effective in this regard. Additional services such as learning new songs, extended performances, or special setups can also increase the overall cost.
If you would rather get a DJ for your event, the average cost is between $300 to $1,200. DJs are less expensive as they require less setup, fewer personnel, and can offer a wide variety of music genres. DJs are also ideal for smaller budgets or events where space and logistics might be a constraint. However, using a DJ will not give you the live performance you desire.
DJ’s vs Live Band Performances for a Party
When planning a party, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing between a DJ and a live band. Both options have their pros and cons.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a DJ
DJs can play a diverse selection of music genres and are often more flexible in accommodating song requests on the fly. They are also generally more affordable than live bands, making them a great option for those on a tight budget. Typically, DJs require less space for their setup, which can be beneficial for smaller venues or house parties.
However, DJs have less interaction with the crowd compared to live band members, which can affect the engagement level. Some of the best DJs for hire, like DJ Corey and DJ Jason, have verified reviews and know how to keep party guests entertained. However, while DJs can play great music, they may not provide the same energy and presence as a live band performance.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Live Band
Live bands offer an engaging and dynamic performance that can energize friends and guests and create a memorable atmosphere. One of the flavors of hiring a live band is their authentic sound that makes the event more special and unforgettable. Some of the best live bands for hire include Vintage Band for jazz bands, Mood for cover bands, and Legendary for wedding bands. These bands are known for their intricate way of interacting with the audience, bringing a personal touch to the performance.
On the flip side, live bands are generally more expensive due to the number of band members and equipment required. Bands also need more space for their instruments and setup, which might not be suitable for smaller venues. Additionally, bands may need breaks between sets, which can interrupt the flow of music.
The Most Requested Songs at Parties
Choosing the right songs for a party makes all the difference in keeping guests entertained and creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Here’s a list of some of the most requested live band best songs at parties:
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“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
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“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
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“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
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“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston
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“Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon
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“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
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“Billie Jean” by Micheal Jackson
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“All of Me” by John Legend
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“Hey Ya!” by OutKast
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“Superstition” by Stevie Wonder
Need to Hire a Band?
Before you book a band for your party, ensure to define your event characteristics. Then, search for potential bands, contact them and determine details. The final step would be putting everything in a contract and paying a deposit to secure the booking.
Planning early and communicating clearly with your chosen band is helpful in ensuring a successful event. By starting the process well in advance, you’ll have more options and flexibility to find the perfect band that fits your needs. Likewise, clear communication helps avoid any last-minute surprises and ensures that both you and the band are on the same page regarding expectations and requirements.
Ready to make your event unforgettable? Explore our best bands and DJs at Liv Entertainment. For personalized assistance, schedule a free consultation with us.