How much does a live band cost for a wedding or company party?
Short answer
A live band usually costs SEK 15,000–40,000 per night in Sweden. The number of musicians, playing time, date and whether the band brings its own sound system and engineer decide where in that range the price falls.
A live band does something no playlist can: the energy of musicians on stage spreads to the dance floor. But a band also means more people, more equipment and more logistics, and that shows in the price. Here we go through what a live band tends to cost and how to work it out before you send a request.
How much does a live band cost?
A live band usually costs between SEK 15,000 and 40,000 for a night. That range applies to a covers band playing two to three sets at a wedding, a company party or a larger private event. The amount is the band's fee and may or may not include sound, lighting and an engineer.
The lower end of the range is typical for smaller bands and shorter bookings at venues with good sound. The upper end is typical for bigger line-ups, Saturdays in high season and bookings where the band brings a full sound system and its own sound engineer.
What affects the price of a live band?
| Factor | Brings the price down | Pushes the price up |
|---|---|---|
| Number of musicians | Duo or trio | Five musicians or more, horns and backing vocals |
| Playing time | One or two sets | Three sets or more, plus a DJ between sets |
| Date | Weekday and low season | Saturdays in summer and in December |
| Sound and lighting | The venue's system | Own sound, lighting and sound engineer |
| Travel | A local band | Transporting equipment and overnight stays |
The number of musicians is the biggest single factor, since every person needs to be paid. Next comes sound. A band needs far more sound than a DJ or a troubadour, and at many venues the band has to bring its own system and an engineer who mixes during the night.
How big a band do you need?
Match the size to the room and the number of guests. A duo or trio works well for drinks receptions, dinners and smaller groups. For a wedding or a company party with a dance floor, a band of four to five musicians gives a fuller sound. Bigger line-ups with horns and backing vocals make the most difference when the room is large and the crowd wants to dance all night.
What is included when you book a live band?
It varies from band to band, so ask for a quote that lists everything. The performance, the band's instruments and a prepared set list are usually included. Ask in particular about sound, lighting and an engineer, whether the band plays music from a playlist between sets, what an extra hour costs and whether the band needs food, drinks or a room to change in.
Practicalities before the gig
A band needs more preparation than a DJ, and most of it comes down to space, power and time. Check that the stage area fits all the musicians and instruments, that there are enough power sockets near the stage and that the band can carry in their equipment without stairs or narrow passages. Allow time for setting up and a soundcheck, often one to two hours before guests arrive, so the soundcheck does not disturb the drinks reception. Find out whether the venue has noise limits or a time when the music must be turned down, and tell the band before they quote. Finally, send a schedule for the night with the name of a contact person who will be there.
Live band or DJ?
A band gives you an experience, while a DJ gives you range. The band often becomes the highlight of the night, but plays a limited number of songs in sets with breaks. A DJ can play exactly what the crowd wants all night and usually costs less. Many weddings and parties combine the two: a band for the first part of the night and a DJ afterwards. Read more about how much a DJ costs and how to plan your wedding music, or book a live band straight away.
Frequently asked questions about booking a live band
How much does a live band cost for a wedding?
A live band for a wedding usually costs SEK 15,000–40,000 for the night. The price is higher for bigger bands, Saturdays in summer and when the band brings its own sound system and engineer. Ask for a quote that states the number of musicians, the number of sets and what is included.
How long does a live band play?
A live band usually plays two to three sets of 40–60 minutes with breaks in between. Many bands can play music from a playlist during the breaks. If you want music all night, you can pair the band with a DJ.
Does the band need its own sound system?
Usually, yes, because a band needs more sound than a venue's regular speakers can handle. Check what the venue has and ask the band what they need. If the band brings its own sound system, the quote should say whether an engineer is included.
How far in advance should you book a live band?
Book as early as you can, ideally several months ahead for weddings and big parties. Good bands are often fully booked on Saturdays in summer and in December. For a smaller event on a weekday, a few weeks is often enough.
