Bands Booking Agency
Over at Last Minute Musicians there is a quality, reputable and reliable Online Band Booking Agency. They mainly specialise in Weddings, Functions, Corporate Events and Private Parties. This type of work can be a great way to make a living or can supplement other creative projects. For example, many indie bands who are writing and gigging original material work with their band playing covers and material which they like to supplement their often low paid indie gigs. See the Entertainment Agency for more information.
Finding a band agency for your event
So, you have found a venue and caterers for your event and are wondering how to go about finding some sort of entertainment? Music booking agents take all of the stress and hassle out of booking a band for any type of event. One place to start your search for your band is Last Minute Musicians.com where you can book musicians and bands online. Always listen to audio clips and check some pictures of the band actually playing live so the you know exactly what you are playing for. A "band agency" will offer you more security than dealing with the artist directly. Agency musicians are covered by contracts and the manager will always check that the band has public liability insurance.
When choosing a band booking agent always have a look at a list of their recent clients. Good agents will usually have worked with some companies that you recognise and will feature some testimonials from clients. When you finally decide on a band that you like its time get a quote for your event. Have an idea of your budget in mind before contacting them. Try to speak with the music booking agency directly either by telephone or e-mail and ask for a quote. The main information that you need to know is the venue address and start / end times for your event. The entertainment agency will be able to give you a quote and also tell you whether or not the band is available on your event date.
When it comes to paying for your event you will usually be asked for a deposit up front (around 20% of the total cost) and then the balance on the day of your event. A musicians agency will also liaise with your venue regarding sound systems and lighting specifications. It is customary to offer musicians refreshments during your event, happy musicians will be much more entertaining than hungry musicians!
Bands Booking Agent
As well as an agency their are other good options for your band. Try reading the blog over at How To Get Gigs, they feature lots of useful ideas for getting gigs and booking better gigs for your act. Another alternative to an agent is to post around in some forums for advice and help from other people with similar experiences. Try the Musicians Forum and all the threads at the LMM Entertainment Forum for more help. Good look with finding the right representation for your ensemble, we hope you get lots of new and exciting gigs! You could also check out our Compare Function Bands page.
Also try our Band Agents page which features some of the best agencies operating in London at the moment. Book Bands - The place to find a band for an event.