12 Questions to Ask a Wedding Band Before You Book (2026 Ireland)

Before you book any wedding band, MusicAngel or otherwise, there are 12 questions worth asking. These reveal whether you're hiring a professional act or a weekend warrior with a Spotify backing track.

1. Do you play 100% live, or use backing tracks?

The single most important question. Backing tracks let smaller bands sound bigger but are obvious in person and instantly recognisable on wedding videos. MusicAngel bands all play 100% live, no exceptions.

2. How many members are in your line-up, and which of them are at our wedding?

Some bands operate as a brand with a rotating cast. The 4 people you saw on the showreel may not be the 4 people who turn up on the day. Get this confirmed in writing.

3. Can I see you live before I book?

The single best signal of a confident band: they'll invite you to a showcase or recent wedding. See our showcase guide. If a band refuses to be seen live, that's a red flag.

4. How long do you actually play for?

"A standard evening" varies. Common formats: 2 × 60 min sets (typical Irish standard), 2 × 45 min sets (slightly less for the same money, ask why), 3 × 40 min sets (good for longer formats).

5. What's included in the price?

Confirm: PA system, stage lighting, DJ-style music between/after sets, one new song learned, travel within Ireland. If anything from this list is extra, factor it into the quote comparison.

6. Do you cover ceremony or drinks reception music?

Most bands cover both as paid add-ons. See our ceremony music guide and drinks reception guide. Typical add-on cost: €300-€500.

7. Will you learn our first dance song?

Standard Irish wedding band offering: one new song learned for the couple, typically the first dance. Confirm this is included. See our first dance song guide.

8. What happens if a band member is ill on the day?

Professional bands have established deps (replacement musicians). Ask how many of the regular line-up will be replaced if there's illness, and how the band handles it. "We've never had to" is not an answer.

9. What's your full price, including travel, taxes, and any extras?

Get a single quoted price in writing, including all add-ons you want. Watch for travel surcharges to remote venues. Confirm there are no surprise extras on the day.

10. What's the deposit, and what's the cancellation policy?

Standard: €500-€1,000 deposit. Cancellation policy should be clearly written, including what you get back if you cancel 12 months out vs 6 months out vs 1 month out.

11. Can we see real reviews from couples, not just star ratings?

Star ratings are easy to fake. Real reviews with names, dates, venues, and specific details are not. Ask for 3-5 recent ones you can read in full. If they hesitate, find another band.

12. Are you fully insured?

Public liability insurance (typically €6.5M cover) is standard for Irish wedding bands. Most venues require proof. Confirm the band has it and can provide a certificate.

Bonus: what to ask your venue before booking the band

• What's the curfew? (Determines band end time.)
• Are there sound restrictions? (Decibel limits, etc.)
• Is there a load-in time? (Bands need 1-2 hours to set up.)
• Is there a stage area or platform?
• Are there power outlets near the stage area?
• Do you have a preferred-supplier list? (Sometimes you have to use venue-approved bands.)

Red flags: when to walk away

• Refusal to confirm the actual line-up playing your wedding.
• No public-liability insurance.
• No real reviews available.
• Won't let you see them live in any way.
• Uncertain about whether they play 100% live.
• Pressure tactics ("special price only this week").
• Demanding full payment upfront.

For MusicAngel's specific answers to all 12 questions, send an enquiry, and we'll respond within one working day.

Frequently asked questions