Booking Live Music for a London Wedding or Celebration

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

Write a music brief

Describe the occasion, date, address, guest numbers and purpose of the music: ceremony, dinner background or dancing. Choose styles, song languages and an appropriate lineup, from soloist to duo or band. In a small room, volume and positioning matter more than musician numbers.

Platforms such as Encore Musicians ↗ provide a starting point by performer type and occasion. Review live recordings, repertoire and feedback from comparable events. A platform profile cannot replace agreement on your actual programme.

Agree performance and equipment

Specify arrival, soundcheck, start and finish times, sets and breaks. Ask what plays between sets and whether requested songs are included. Learning a new piece or performing in another language may require a separate agreement.

Establish who supplies the PA, microphones, lighting and power arrangements. Pass on the venue's noise limits, space, loading and parking restrictions. For outdoor music, agree shelter and an indoor alternative in bad weather.

Establish costs and responsibilities

Request a written total covering travel, equipment, overtime and any VAT. Discuss deposit, balance, cancellation, illness and replacement performers. Check whether the platform's booking protection applies to your chosen payment method.

Separately agree the permitted entertainment, hours, volume and responsibility for any necessary licences with the venue. GOV.UK explains music licensing ↗ for public use; that general information does not establish that every private wedding needs the same separate licence. Ask the venue and licensing organisation about your particular event if unclear.

Put it in writing

The Musicians’ Union publishes standard live-engagement contracts ↗ for bands and solo musicians. Use them to identify relevant terms when agreeing your contract with the supplier.

Confirm the date, location, lineup, duration, repertoire, equipment, price and cancellation terms. Agree photographs, recording and publication separately. Recheck the schedule with the venue coordinator shortly before the event: performers need clear practical instructions as well as the celebration's address.