Guitarists

Guitarists for events and functions

A professional guitarist can add a refined and atmospheric musical backdrop to almost any event. Whether you are planning a wedding, corporate reception or private celebration, a live guitarist offers flexible repertoire, controlled volume and a compact technical setup that fits most venues. From background instrumental pieces to more upbeat sets for networking or drinks, a guitarist is a versatile solution when you want quality live music without overwhelming conversation.

What to expect from a professional guitarist

Most event guitarists offer a broad repertoire covering pop, jazz standards, Latin, classical, film music and soft rock, often arranged for solo guitar or guitar with backing tracks. Typical sets: 2–3 x 45 minutes, with short breaks in between. A reliable guitarist will arrive early, coordinate timings with your schedule and adjust volume to suit speeches and mingling. Some can take special song requests in advance, for example for a first dance or processional.

Suitable occasions for a guitarist

Guitarists are well suited to events where atmosphere, elegance and controlled volume are important. Common uses include:

• Wedding ceremonies, drinks receptions and dinners
• Corporate receptions, product launches and networking events
• Birthday parties, anniversaries and private dinners at home
• Hotel lobbies, bars, restaurants and terraces
• Award evenings, gallery openings and charity functions

Because the setup is compact, guitarists work well in smaller venues and spaces where a full band would be impractical.

Practical details for planners

Price range: Fees vary with experience, date, travel and playing time. As a guideline, expect from £250–£400 for a short local booking (up to 60–90 minutes) and £400–£800+ for longer or premium events.
Equipment: Most guitarists bring their own instrument, compact amplifier and basic sound system. You typically provide a standard power outlet, a small performance area and, for outdoor events, weather protection.
Space and volume: A guitarist usually needs 2 × 2 metres of space and can play at discreet background level suitable for conversation.
Booking considerations: Confirm timings, location, dress code, parking and any specific song requests in writing. For popular dates (summer weekends and December), early booking is strongly recommended.

FAQ about hiring a guitarist

How far in advance should I book a guitarist?

For weddings and key corporate dates, 6–12 months’ notice is common, especially from May to September and in December. For weekday or off-season events, 1–3 months is often sufficient, but last-minute availability will depend on the individual musician’s schedule.

Can a guitarist play outdoors?

Yes, many guitarists perform outdoors for ceremonies and receptions. However, you must provide a dry, shaded area and access to power if amplification is needed. Strong sun, wind or rain can damage instruments and equipment, so a covered area or tent is strongly recommended.

Do I need to provide any technical equipment?

In most cases, no. Professional guitarists bring their own instrument, amplification and cables. You may need to supply a chair without armrests, power access and, if required, a connection to your venue’s PA system. Discuss technical details in advance to avoid issues on the day.