So how DO you choose the right wedding band for your celebration?

Do let us know the songs you would especially like to hear (or not hear!) from the corresponding Jazz, Soul and Boogie repertoires!  See also Do I get to plan a play list?

The Essential Jazz Soul Boogie Function Band hire guide...

There’s no better way to bring your wedding reception, function or party to life than to hire a fantastic live band. The anticipation that naturally accompanies any live performance can add a fabulous air of excitement to an event and guests love being able to interact with real musicians.

That being said, there are a few potential pitfalls that lie lurking for the unwary. As one of the leading function bands in the South East - playing across Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Essex, Sussex and Hampshire - we thought we’d highlight some of the key points you should consider when looking to hire a live band:

1. Is the band’s repertoire wide enough? 
   Is the band's repertoire wide enough to appeal to several different age groups and musical tastes?
   Whether it's a wedding reception or party, it’s likely there’ll be a wide cross-section of people attending. So before you hire a function band it’s important to check that their repertoire will have broad appeal.
   The Jazz Soul Boogie Band's song list stretches all the way from the 1960s right up to the 2000s, covering genres from jazz swing to funky pop and jive - so no-one has an excuse not to get up and dance!

2. Is it possible to hear the band play 'live' before you hire them?
   It’s really important that you ask bands if you can hear them play live before deciding which one to hire. It’s also worth checking how long the band has been performing and that it isn’t one that’s being pulled together at the last minute with the help of session musicians.
   The Jazz Soul Boogie Band is playing regularly and it is usually no problem to arrange for you to pop in briefly on a performance and check us out in a live performance as a 'fly on the wall'. Not only is it an opportunity for you to hear what we sound like ‘live’ but it’s also a chance to see the musicians who’ll be playing at your wedding reception, party or function. If seeing the band live is not possible, we also have a large range of live recordings available for you to listen to - just check out the setlists for each of the jazz, soul and boogie function band line-ups!

3. Is the band fully insured and do they have an electrical safety (PAT) certificate?
   Whether you’re organising a wedding reception, party or some other type of function it’s worth making sure that the band you hire has full public liability insurance and also a current portable appliance test (PAT) electrical safety certificate. Many venues now insist on bands having these in order to meet legal requirements and even for those venues that don’t it still makes sense to hire a band that is properly covered.

4. Will there be any music before the band goes on and also when they take a break?
   When talking to different function bands always remember to ask whether they provide background and/or disco music before, in between and after their live performances. This is something that the Jazz Soul Boogie Band does automatically, plus we give you the added option of playing your iPod or CDs through our excellent sound system.

5. Does the band have the experience to deliver?
   No one event is ever the same. Each requires a slightly different approach to create the right atmosphere and for this you need a band with experience and good judgement - one that knows, for example, when to switch from an up-tempo number to a slower song for dancing.
   The Jazz Soul Boogie Band has provided entertainment at a wide variety of functions right across Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Essex, Sussex and Hampshire since 2004 - (over 200 gigs so far) and really know how to get a party going to make everyone feel at ease. It’s this experience that allows us to select the best type of music to play at a particular function and ensure that the event flows smoothly.

The Jazz Soul Boogie Band aims to provide the very best in live party and wedding reception entertainment. From Olly Wedgwood on solo piano for smooth background 'cocktail' jazz to a full out six-piece funky boogie band - we’re one of the most frequently recommended party and wedding bands in the South East and are available for hire throughout Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Essex, Sussex and Hampshire. We have an exceptionally wide repertoire designed to make your special day flow with fantastic music, great live entertainment and hugely fun dancing.

If you’re looking for a great live band then The Jazz Soul Boogie Band may well be your perfect choice. Email Olly now to see if we are available to perform at your event!