About these Background Music Bands

Background music comes in various genres and styles and, depending on the event, different genres of background music may be suitable. For example, a corporate event may suit classical background music more - perhaps a cellist, string quartet or jazz trio to sooth guests whilst they sip from their champagne glasses and discuss business. Depending on the size of the occasion, an event organiser may want to choose different musicians to perform during different sections. For example, a solo pianist may perform whilst guests enter and then a jazz trio could perform as they eat. Turning up the heat a little, a classic 50s rock N roll band could then round the event off in style.

In this instance, those organising a corporate event may be wise to hire a jazz trio or string ensemble. Through doing this, not only can the musicians perform together but also separately thereby saving the organiser money.

Of course, background music is not just constrained within the classical or jazz genre.

Many choose to hire solo instrumentalists such as guitarists, harpists or bagpipers to perform during their event. Particularly for Scottish weddings, bagpipers can be hired to perform as the bride walks down the aisle or as the guests enjoy a meal or drinks.

Vocalists are also popular choices to provide background music. Performing to a backing track, solo vocalists can perform contemporary hits as well as the hits from past decades. It is also possible to hire a whole band, backing a vocalist. Reducing the sound to a suitable level so that guests can still converse without shouting is a skill required by all professional musicians. Considering this, it’s not impossible to hire your favourite function band to provide background music as well as perhaps performing as the main entertainment at another point in the event.

"We hired The VoxTwo to sing recently at our annual summer party which we hold for our regular customers and staff. It's a really important event to us, and a lot of planning and care goes into it. The girls were punctual (early in fact which worked for us) and set up their PA system very quickly - and it didn't take up too much room either which we were also grateful for. They were absolutely fantastic! The atmosphere was electric and I had countless comments from my guests saying how much they enjoyed the entertainment. We've already re booked them for next year and would highly recommend. Two very talented and lovely ladies!"

Willow Tree House's review of VoxTwo

Prices for Background Music Bands:

Background musicians come in various different set ups, and so quotes will vary. For instance, a solo singer with backing tracks will usually charge a minimum of £150, whereas a jazz quartet will usually charge a minimum of £700. Whichever genre you decide to go with, use the "advanced search" feature to find background musicians near you and cut down on travel costs.

How does a booking work?

Booking background musicians is very similar to booking a live band as the main spectacle of an event. It is important, that the client informs musicians of how many guests will be attending the event. This will allow the musicians to consider if they need to bring any other equipment with them to provide the best quality entertainment.

Most musicians will exchange a contract, and require a deposit to secure the date. Other logistical information such as parking close to the venue, sources of electricity close to the performance area and whether a room is available exclusively for musicians for changing clothes, storing equipment and valuables.

History of background music

Musicians have been used to provide background music for centuries. From performing in Royal courts to appease Kings and Queens to performing at balls and other prestigious events, without live musicians many of history’s most famous events would have been silent. From the high-status aristocrat balls of King Louis XIV in Paris to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, live backing musicians are integral part of society.

The Background Music Bands featured on this page are all members of the LastMinuteMusicians.com entertainment directory. The acts are all used to performing quiet/gentle music so as to not interrupt conversation. Use the refine section at the top of this page to find Background Music Bands close to you. Simply choose a county or enter a post code into the "available in" box to refine the listings to your local area. Click the "visit listing" button to see the full profiles of the individual Background Music Bands. With over 3300 active listings you are sure to find the perfect entertainer, musician, band or entertainment service to make your event just perfect. Don`t forget you can use our online chat (below) to get instant help with your booking. If you are looking for a full band for a wedding reception or party please visit our hire a wedding band page.