Top 30 Wedding Bands, Singers & Musicians Sydney (2024)

It Sets the Tone and the Mood Like Nothing Else

There is no denying that live music brings energy and emotion to a room that even DJs have admitted are beyond compare, whereas listening to canned DJ jams is a little different than listening to the radio. If you want your wedding to have a certain feel to it, finding the right musicians can create the perfect atmosphere and truly be the so-to-speak cherry on top of your ceremony or celebration.

Live musicians can change to mood of a room as it is needed. They can bring a great level of elegance and sophistication to your wedding, especially to the ceremony, cocktail hour, or during dinner. Depending on what you want, they can bring a little energy or a ton of energy to the dance floor at your reception, making even the wallflowers-est of the bunch tap their toes and get moving.

It’s an Encompassing Experience

Why do people go to concerts instead of staying home and listening to the radio in their bathrobes? Performance. People not only love listening to live music but also seeing and feeling it. A band makes music come to life and turns it into an experience for many senses, not just your ears.

Even those that can’t dance (like your Aunt Martha, who just celebrated her 100th birthday—you go, Aunt Martha!) can enjoy the experience of listening to and watching live musicians. Unfortunately, a DJ just does not have the same showmanship or entertainment value as a live band.

Live Music Is a Uniting Factor

Live music can bridge gaps and unite generations of people. A DJ may play dance music that is currently popular or a list of typical songs played at every reception across America. Of course, you’re always going to have one or more generations that aren’t into what’s being played (“not my jam”, “music in my day was actual music!”, etc.) But live music seems to get everyone past their biases, even if the song is particular to a certain generation. The fun of watching and listening to musicians surpasses all that.

Live Music Is Always a Unique Experience

You will get one first dance with your new spouse; do you want it to be the same as thousands of other couples who have listened to the same pre-recorded song played in the same way for everyone? Or would you rather be able to say that it was something unique played just for the two of you?

Musicians are living, breathing people, so there will be subtle variations in the way they play their instruments every time they play a song—even if they’ve played it a thousand times. Each band also has its unique style and flavour that they add to their music. These elements combined make any song that is played unique to your wedding.

Songs that a DJ would use have been recorded for posterity, and they will always sound the same no matter how many times it is played (it has no autonomy, so it has no choice). It will sound the same to your ears as to every other couple who has played it. With musicians, you have an option that you don’t with pre-recorded music—you can ask for variations of style or tempo in the song, and a great band will be better able to accommodate that request.

It Creates a Memorable Experience for You and Your Guests

Why are you going through all that trouble of planning your wedding down to the last gorgeous detail if not to make it an incredibly memorable event for you and everyone you love? If you’re fretting about how many leaves you want each baby’s breath stem to contain, you’d want to put even more care into something as big as the music and entertainment for your wedding, wouldn’t you? That’s why having a live band is such a great decision.

Do you remember the name of the DJ who spun at the last wedding you attended? Neither do we. Even though there are some great DJs out there, they all start to blend for the most part. Live bands have a special uniqueness to each of them. They not only make a great topic for conversation among strangers who are eating dinner at the same table, but it’s also an element that creates special memories to talk about later on.

Live Musicians Have Flexibility

As far as being able to make adjustments on the fly, stop and restart without problems, or being able to react at the moment to anything the room throws at them—live musicians have the advantage. For instance, your young ring bearer starts walking down the aisle, freaks out when all eyes are on him and makes a run for it. The last thing you want to be worried about is AV problems with stopping and starting the music. A live band can pause and restart exactly where they left off without an issue, and they will be more inclined to spot problems and adjust as soon as they start.

Talk to Your Wedding Venue

Before you even think about booking a wedding band, you need to have a frank conversation with your wedding venue. For varying reasons, many wedding venues enforce restrictions on live music. Therefore, it’s essential you check whether your venue allows live music and, if they do, whether they impose any volume restrictions. If there are any restrictions in place, it’s your responsibility to inform your band before you book to ensure they are happy to work within limits. 

To ensure volume restrictions are adhered to, many venues use a sound limiter. If your venue uses a sounds limiter, you must determine the decibel limit and inform your chosen band of the limit before you book. Most bands can modify their performance to fit within all but the strictest decibel limits, but they’ll need to know in advance so that they can bring along appropriate equipment.

If all this talk of sound limiters leaves you puzzled, don’t worry, entertainment agencies are experienced in working with venues with sound limiters and can answer any questions you may have.

Book Through a Trusted Agency

Booking your wedding band through a reputable wedding entertainment agency brings with it a host of benefits. First, a good agency gathers a wide range of quality-controlled wedding bands in one place, making it easier for you to contrast and compare different acts all at once, whilst being safe in the knowledge that each band is a professional outfit you can rely upon to deliver high-quality performance on your big day.

Entertainment agencies are also a godsend if you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for in a band. Experienced advisers will speak to you to know all about your wedding and then make expert suggestions based on your specific requirements. These advisers will also talk to bands on your behalf, so even if you inquire about multiple acts, you only have to communicate with a single named contact.

Another area in which agencies excel is in the security of the booking process. Established entertainment agencies offer online payment through secure third-party payment systems. They will draw up legally binding contracts between you and your chosen act, giving you the peace of mind that your booking is set in stone.

Always make sure you find reviews of both the agency and your chosen wedding band on independent review sites like Trustpilot, Facebook and Google.

Set Your Budget

The price you can expect to pay for a live wedding band varies dramatically, ranging from the hundreds of pounds up to the tens of thousands. In general, the more band members in a band, the more you should expect to pay. Other factors included the experience and popularity of your favoured band and how far they’ll need to travel to perform at your wedding - travel expenses and accommodation fees soon add up.

The average cost of a 4-piece band is around �900 to �1300. If this doesn’t fall within your budget, you can still secure top-class live musicians for your big day. Many bands will be happy to offer a reduced lineup to bring their fee more in line with your budget, or you could opt for a solo or duo act. With clever use of loop pedals and professional backing tracks, solo and duo performers can skilfully replicate a full band sound for a much lower fee.

Select Your Sound

No matter how out there your musical tastes are, there’s a band out there who can deliver a performance to suit your style. If you’re browsing an entertainment agency website, you’ll find that bands are conveniently split into different genres and styles, making your search for the perfect act all the simpler. So if you’re struggling to find a band that fits the bill, get in touch with the agency - after a quick chat about your preferences, they should be able to reel off a host of suitable acts. 

When you’re choosing your wedding band, do spare a thought for your family and friends. If a full dance floor is your priority, consider a band with the ability to perform songs from various genres. That way, everyone gets their turn to let loose to a favourite tune.

Are Wedding Djs Better Than Live Bands?

Why You Should Hire a Wedding Band:

• Bands are epic. A group of people rocking out on their instruments can be fun and dramatic and gets the party started.
• Music played by a live band almost always sounds incredible.
• Any love ballads you choose are guaranteed to sound more heartfelt and emotional when performed by a live band.
• A band can improvise and adjust the tempo of the songs to jazz things up when needed!
• Even guests that don’t enjoy dancing will have fun watching a live band perform.
• Band members often have infectious personalities, making sure everyone gets on the dance floor! Bonus!

Limitations to Wedding Bands:

• Whilst most bands are more than happy to learn a song for your first dance, the remainder of their repertoire might be quite specific. Just make sure the band you pick plays your kind of music! Going to hear them play (before you book) can help with this.
• Band members will always need a break between sets, which can create a lull in the music. But you can always have a playlist ready to fill the gap.
• A band can often cost a fair amount of money, as each member needs to be paid.
• A band will require a fair amount of space and many electrical outlets, so make sure you work this out before booking!

Why You Should Hire a Wedding Dj:

• A DJ will have an endless variety of songs instantly available to them, meaning they can adjust to the mood or even make requests. You can also make sure they have your list of favourites before the big day!
• A DJ can take breaks without having to stop the music.
• The volume levels are easily adjustable.
• DJ’s require smaller spaces to set up.
• Reputable DJ companies will always have a stand-by DJ, ready to take over should anything go wrong. Phew.
• A DJ is usually cheaper than a band (maybe not David Guetta…!)

Limitations to Wedding DJs:

• Pre-recorded music might not evoke the same energy as live music… Unless the songs played are ‘your’ songs.
• If the DJ doesn’t have a lively personality, they can be a wedding buzz-kill. So best to meet them before to make sure.
• A DJ can sometimes go into autopilot, and the songs you specifically asked him not to play may make an unwelcome appearance through the speakers. Try and speak to people that booked your DJ for their wedding to confirm he will rock it!
• Check out our post on What is good wedding entertainment?

Other Things to Consider When Choosing Bands Vs. DJs

Besides the type of event you are hosting, there are a few other items to think about when deciding between a live band and a DJ for your party.

• Budget. Think about your budget. If you don’t have a lot of extra cash around for a live performance, a DJ is a more budget-friendly option.
• Type of Music. Another consideration is the type of music you want to have played at your event. If the band can only play blues, but you know you’re going to want to throw in a little Lady Gaga, a DJ is your better bet.
• Guests. Will Aunt Merna want to hear an old song from her hay day? Perhaps your niece Georgia would like to hear Baby Shark. A band may or may not be able to accommodate the tastes of many of your guests, which may put a damper on the mood of your party.
• Location. Can your band fit in your venue? Will your venue allow live music? Live music can take up quite a bit of space that you may not think about when you’re first starting to sign contracts. DJs take up a lot less room but still need to see the space so they can alert you to any accommodations that may need to be made.
• Recommendations. Always consider recommendations and reviews for the entertainment you’re looking to hire. Some personalities may work with yours, while others may not. Don’t get caught in a situation where the band or DJ attempts to make lame jokes during your reception. Not cool.
• Experience. This is a big one that many people may not remember while planning all the details. Experienced entertainers have seen a lot in their time and can generally deal with any situation. Brand new entertainers may still be learning. Ask your professional how long they’ve been in the biz.

Does the Wedding Band Have a Set Playlist, or Are You Able to Include Requests?

Of course, you want your wedding band to have a selection of sure-fire hits that they play at all weddings. This includes the Top 50, as well as mainstays like Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and The Isley Brothers’ “Shout.” But an important question to ask when meeting with prospective bands is if they’ll take requests for your setlist. Of course, they’ll prefer if you don’t dictate every song of your wedding, but it’d be nice if you can include some favourites as suggestions.

Will They Learn Songs for You? If So, How Many?

Another key question is, will they learn a song for you? While a band may not learn a song just to include in the middle of the setlist, they’ll likely be happy to accommodate this for special dances, like your wedding song. Keep in mind. They may only allow you to ask them to learn a certain amount of songs, so get this information upfront. Our band learned both our wedding song and our cake-cutting song – and we felt fortunate they were willing to do so without giving us an issue. The takeaway? Look for flexibility.

Are the Band Members the Same at Every Wedding?

While most reputable bands have a set group of members who only play with each other, there are cases where what you buy isn’t exactly what you get. So if you meet with a company and only let you hear soundbites from the group without actually seeing the members, make sure to ask if the band members are the same at each wedding. This ensures cohesiveness at your event and that you’re getting the group you wanted.

Does the Price Include Ceremony Music?

Many banks charge an ad-hoc fee for ceremony music. You can get the keyboard player early, but you may have to pay an hourly fee for an additional 1-2 hours for the ceremony and cocktail hour. And those strings? They’ll cost extra. At your initial meeting, make sure to get an outline of what’s included in the base price and find out about any additional costs.

How Much Are the Overtime Fees?

At the end of your wedding (dare we say it), they’ll likely be the inevitable “one more song, one more song!” chant. And while we admit it’s easy to succumb to peer pressure, just remember it may cost you. So if the party is still going strong and you don’t want to call it quits just yet, make sure you get those hard costs in writing when signing your wedding band agreement. In addition, they’ll likely have overtime fees that are charged by the hour. However, each band varies.

Live Is Ultimately the Best

There is no denying that live music is miles better than hearing it come out of speakers (even if the speakers are amazing). The sheer presence of a live band can instantly change the atmosphere of any venue or event, including your wedding reception. Of course, no one wants their wedding day to turn into a wild gig, but it can enhance the excitement and party atmosphere and make your day memorable.

Think back to the last live music event you went to, (hopefully) the atmosphere was incredible – something that lives bands will always replicate when they play at an event or venue. Live music is infectious, and even if you’re not into the music, the beat will surely get you moving if not at least get your feet tapping to the rhythm.

Whatever Your Tastes…

The best thing about hiring a wedding band is that there will be a band to fit your preferred genre. From a pop covers band to a ceilidh band, it is guaranteed there will be a band that can fit into your wedding theme somehow.

Into 80’s music? Not a problem. There will be many 80s tribute bands out there who dedicate their music to the best artists of the era—obsessed with a specific band? They’ll most definitely be a tribute band who will play at your wedding.

Classical music bands can also be brilliant to create a more elegant atmosphere. Of course, you could hire a harpist or a brass band to play you down the aisle. Whatever the genre, you’ll find a band!

Crowd Pleaser

The best thing about bands is their ability to encourage your guests to come out of their shells and onto the dancefloor. Whether it be dancing, singing or doing the conga, some of the best wedding bands can even get your grumpy grandpa up and dancing (even if he doesn’t know the music)!

Most bands can read their crowd, so they will get a feel and understanding of what your guests want. They’ll know what to play and what not to play and can be as interactive as they feel necessary. If your close friends and relatives are quite rowdy, the band will surely play up to this and make your night one to remember for a long time!

Even if you have a quiet Granny, guaranteed the band would get her foot tapping at some point! Trust us. Everyone loves a band!

Call us sentimental, but nothing says romance more than being serenaded with a love song from a live band. Although this might not be everyone’s cup of tea, there is no denying that there is something very romantic about live music, no matter the genre. Given that it’s a wedding, there’s got to be some romance about it, so why not make the day even more special with a wedding band?

Your first dance is the most important song played at your wedding. It’s the first song you and your partner will dance to as an ‘official’ married couple. The band can learn this, and the result can be magical. There’s nothing better than dancing to your special song together performed by a live band, who will most probably sound just like the real thing (or just as good as)!

What’s best is that if you are quite a shy couple who don’t want the spotlight, the band are up there with you. In addition, they can easily get the rest of your guests joining in and dancing pretty quickly afterwards, so you’re both not there on your own with everyone watching.

Many couples are put off by a band’s limited repertoire and believe they will only stick to these songs. This, however, is just not true. For some bands, if you had a few specific songs in mind, they are happy to learn these but would require advance notice so they can learn it before your day (it’s only fair). However, if you hire a talented and experienced band, many of them can adapt their music and take requests on the day. This will be even better for your guest’s enjoyment and another reason to hire a band!

Bands Can Play at Any Time

You don’t have to hire a wedding band purely for your wedding reception. However, if your venue is flexible, bands certainly are too!

As there are different band types, you can hire a band for another part of your wedding. Imagine walking down the aisle to a brass band playing your wedding march, or perhaps a steel drum band playing your recession?

Whether it’s for your ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast or evening reception, you can find a wedding band to suit. Perhaps have a harpist playing at your drinks reception for a touch of elegance? It’s your wedding, and certainly, your way, and wedding bands tend to be very versatile!

A Day to Remember…

Of course, there is no denying that your special day will remain in the memories of your loved ones for years to come, but adding a band to the mix will put your wedding on a whole other level! Most guests remember good food and good entertainment. So hiring a wedding band will guarantee a party night that will stick in your guest’s memories for life! Trust us. It’s completely worth it!

Music is the best part of any wedding! It has a way of really setting the mood and bringing everything alive on your special day. From the music you play when you are walking down the aisle to your selection of choices that you will play at your reception, there’s no denying that music truly is an important part of any wedding.

These days, we are discovering that more couples are deciding to skip the traditional wedding DJs and going for live entertainment. Choosing a live band for your wedding reception is a great idea that can have your guest grooving all through the night. If you are considering having a live band at your reception, keep reading for some great tips!

Consider the Size of Your Live Band

Make sure that the venue you booked allows live bands to perform because some may have restrictions. If they allow live bands, make sure that there is enough space for the band you choose.

Space

Always remember to leave enough space for dancing! This may not cross your mind as you are setting up your guest list, but this is very important. First, you want to make sure that you have enough space so that everyone is comfortable. Second, you want to enjoy the night, and this includes getting your grove on!

Share What You Like

Sharing the types of music you like to listen to on your own time is a great idea. This gives your brand a better sense of your personality and what types of music you like to listen to.

Style

With so many amazing live bands out there, it can be hard to choose the right one that works best for you. In addition, there are so many different styles of music that each band plays, so you want to find one that is suitable for your big day.

Book Early 

The best and most popular bands are booked 13 to 18 months out during the prime months of May thru December. So plan, and you’ll be able to book the perfect band for your big day!