So you are planning an event and have been given the difficult task of arranging the live music. You’ve found the perfect band so what should you expect on the day?

A lot of people underestimate the time it takes for a band to get set up. Often they will have to set up their own PA as well as instrumental equipment so they will usually need at least 2 hours for this process. Usually you can expect them to arrive around 4 hours before the performance time. The band agent will have usually informed you of any technical requirements before the event but if you are not sure you should call them just to check. If you have a technician at the venue then ensure you pass this information on to them.

Once set up the band will needs some time sound check and make sure the sound is as good as it can be. This can take some time depending on the type of venue as some venues that aren’t purpose build for music can have sound issues such as excessive echoes. You should make sure there are no guests in the room while the band sound checks.

You should make sure as the event organiser that you should reconfirm the performance times to the band and check they have all they need. Most bands expect that there will be a dressing room area where they can relax before the performance. It is usually expected that refreshments will be available.

The band will perform their set and usually take a break half way through. Often they are able to provide background music during breaks but again this should be confirmed before the event. The band will usually take a break after the gig before packing down. Some bands have travelled some distance to gig and may request that they can start to pack down before the end of the event. If this is appropriate for example wedding bands where packing away does not interrupt the evening then most organisers allow this. If the event does not lend itself to this then the bands are usually more than happy to wait until after the event. Some bands such as corporate bands do charge a ‘late fee’ if performance go on after midnight. Be sure to check this beforehand.

Booking live bands to provide the entertainment can make your event go with a bang. Now you have an idea of what to expect go out and hire a band!