1. Decide which functions need live music
Most families don't need a band at every function. Common choices are a live band or singer for the sangeet or reception, dhol or a brass band for the baraat, a Sufi or ghazal group for a mehfil, and a DJ for the late-night dancing. Decide which functions matter most to you, and the mood you want at each.
Browse by type: wedding bands, baraat and brass bands, Punjabi and dhol acts, Sufi bands, live singers and DJs.
2. Fix the date, venue and timings first
Performers plan and price around three things: your date, your venue and city, and how long they play. Popular wedding dates fill up early, so start asking as soon as your date is fixed. Write down the start time, how many sets you want, and when music has to stop at your venue.
3. Know what changes the price
Two quotes can look very different because they include different things. The price usually depends on:
- how many performers are on stage;
- how many hours and sets they play, and the rate for extra time on the day;
- whether sound, lights and a stage are included or come from your venue;
- travel and stay, if the act comes from another city;
- special requests, such as learning a song for your entry.
Compare quotes on the same basis. A lower price that leaves out sound or travel can end up costing more.
4. Shortlist two or three acts and watch full videos
Short reels show the best 30 seconds. Ask for a full song recorded live, ideally at a wedding, with the lineup that will play at yours. Check that the people in the videos are the people who will turn up on your date.
5. Ask for an itemised quote
A clear quote lists:
- Date and timings: reporting time, sets and breaks.
- Lineup: who performs and which instruments.
- Sound and equipment: what's included and what your venue provides.
- Travel: charges for venues outside the act's city, if any.
- Price and payment terms: the total, the advance, and when each part is due.
Use our questions to ask a band before you book to fill any gaps.
6. Check with your venue
Ask your venue about stage space, power points near the stage, sound limits and the time music must stop. Under India's Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, loudspeakers can't be used between 10 pm and 6 am except in closed premises such as banquet halls, though a state can allow use until midnight on festive occasions for up to 15 days a year. Many hotels and lawns set their own limits too. Our venue checklist for a live band covers the rest.
7. Agree everything in writing before you pay
Before you pay an advance, put the agreed details in a message or contract that both sides can see: date, venue, reporting and performance times, lineup, song requests, total price, advance, the date the balance is due, and what happens if either side cancels or the date changes. When you book through MusicBajaao, we share the agreed details with you and the performer on WhatsApp, so there is a written record.
8. A week before, and on the day
- Send the song list and the order of the evening: entries, first dance, speeches.
- Share the venue location, a contact person and where to park.
- On the day, have power ready at the stage and leave time for a sound check before guests arrive.
- Arrange water and a meal for the team, and tell them when it will be served.