As volume restrictions and sound limiters become more and more prevalent in venues around the UK, many brides and grooms are faced with an impossible choice – give up the venue they love or compromise on their love of live music.
Fortunately, there are other options available. Acoustic bands offer the excitement of live music, with an added level of control that is difficult to achieve with large guitar amps and a full drum kit.
Additionally, acoustic pop and folk music has made a big comeback in the UK charts. It’s no wonder that acoustic bands are seeing an increase in demand – not only are they able to perform the latest Mumford & Sons or Ed Sheeran single (and learn other requests in that genre!) but they are also extremely versatile, perhaps the greatest weapon in their arsenal!
What is an acoustic band?
Acoustic groups take many forms – they could be anything from a solo singer or duo with acoustic guitars, to a 7/8/9 piece folk band, with percussion, banjo, double bass and more!
Their repertoire can be extensive. Some groups like Two Man Band will focus on more traditional Pop/Rock songs, in a “live lounge” style, while other acts like Mulders Folk utilise a slightly more traditional feel.
What type of events do they play at?
Acoustic bands are able to provide background music, stripping the sound down to its basic components, as well as performing a different set to become the centre of attention and get the crowd dancing.
This is particularly useful in a world where everyone is trying to save money, as the group is able to cover all musical and entertainment bases – softer music during dinner or for a drinks reception, and then an up-beat dance set later in the evening.
Acoustic groups carry considerably less equipment and are sometimes able to offer entertainment without the need for a PA system.
This is especially useful at venues that don’t readily have power such as courtyards, gardens and churches. In this setting, acoustic bands can save a lot of headaches.
This is regularly taken advantage of during weddings, as acoustic duos are hired to entertain guests whilst they are outside, during drinks receptions or the ceremony. Many bands make this an extra option during the summer months.
Thinking about starting an acoustic band?
Many acoustic bands start out life as an option that is offered by electric bands, but their popularity can sometimes grow so much it overtakes the original group!
Offering the option to go acoustic gives an electric band much more flexibility and wider appeal, but can also add other challenges.
While much of the existing material will often be fine re-imagined acoustically, some pop hits may present more of a challenge.
Other acoustic bands start out by presenting a strong theme. Traditional folk acts have risen in popularity recently, given the Glastonbury style wed-fest trend.
These bands could perform traditional “Jigs and reels” or even classic pop songs in a folk style!
An important thing to do when starting an acoustic band (or, indeed, any band!) is to establish a USP. This stands for unique selling point.
While this is a business term, it really just means creating something different for your band that is going to help you stand out amongst the masses.
Do you play in an acoustic band? What advice would you give to anyone thinking of starting one? Post your thoughts in the comments below…
