Question 1

How much does it cost to hire a ceilidh band?

Answer

Ceilidh bands usually charge about 400 GBP (about 460 EUR) per musician, so a trio would cost roughly 1,200 GBP (about 1,380 EUR) and a 4-piece ceilidh band would cost approximately 1,600 GBP (about 1,840 EUR). As with all musicians, price depends on several factors, not least how far they will need to travel to reach your venue. Bands will generally quote an all-in price (which includes all expenses) or quote their performance fee with expenses clearly detailed.

Question 2

How long do ceilidh bands perform for at weddings and events?

Answer

They usually perform 2 or 3 sets of 45-minutes, or something similar to this. Any longer is not recommended as the live music at any event should not be overused or it doesn't have maximum effect. Also consider that performing ceilidh music (and indeed the dancing that goes with it!) is a physical activity for both musicians and guests. Breaks in between sets can be around 30 minutes.

Question 3

What music do ceilidh bands perform?

Answer

They perform the standard ceilidh dances, from the Scottish and Irish traditions. Famous dances include The Dashing White Sergeant, The Gay Gordons, Strip the Willow, Cumberland Square Eight, Canadian Barn Dance, Highland Schottische, The Military Two Step and the Pride of Erin Waltz. Other popular ceilidh tunes/dances include St Bernard’s Waltz, Rebecca’s Roundabout, The Big Set Mixer, The Oxo Reel, La Rouse, Cottagers Jig and The Eightsome Reel.

Question 4

Do they perform pop & rock covers like a standard wedding band do?

Answer

About half of ceilidh bands just perform the traditional Scottish and Celtic dances, but some also perform pop & rock covers...these bands are often referred to as "Ceilidh and Covers Bands". They tend to perform a set of traditional music followed by a pop & rock party set to finish the night off.

Question 5

Most of my guests aren't experienced ceilidh dancers. Will the ceilidh band teach my guests the dances?

Answer

Yes! Nearly all ceilidh bands feature a "caller" who will guide your guests through the moves. The band will usually take a few minutes to explain the dances, followed by the actual performance. The caller explaining the dances is a really fun and interactive part of the entertainment, and of course, it means that less experienced guests can take to the dance floor!

Question 6

Do ceilidh bands bring their own equipment?

Answer

Ceilidh bands will bring all of their own instruments, and sometimes their own PA system and lighting. However, this is not always the case, so you may need to provide a PA system and lighting based on their specifications. Most bands usually charge less if they require the client to provide some equipment.

Question 7

Which musical instruments do ceilidh bands consist of?

Answer

There is a huge amount of variety in the instrumentation of ceilidh bands. Most bands will include a violin (fiddle), an acoustic guitar and a drum kit to set the rhythm. However, several other instruments are often added, including accordion, piano or keyboard, bagpipes, flute or tin whistle and bass guitar.

Question 8

How much space does ceilidh dancing require?

Answer

The band itself will require about 3m by 5m area, but ceilidh dancing takes up a lot of space...much more than a typical disco dance floor, so it's best to clear away tables and chairs to provide the maximum space available.

Question 9

Do ceilidh bands take requests?

Answer

There are only a handful of ceilidh dances, and bands will know their repertoire to a very high standard. It's best to leave the set list to the band's own. discretion. For ceilidh and covers bands, they may be able to accommodate some requests in their covers set.

Question 10

Can I see the ceilidh band performing live before I book?

Answer

In general, ceilidh bands perform at private events like weddings and parties, so it can be difficult to see them performing live before booking. Sometimes, ceilidh bands perform at public events, so they will let you know about this so that you can attend.

Question 11

How long does a ceilidh last?

Answer

Ceilidhs usually last about 2.5 hours. There will be breaks in between the dancing, and each dance will be taught to you by the caller to begin with. You don't have to take part in every ceilidh dance, but of course we'd recommend doing so if you have enough energy!

Question 12

How many people do you need for a ceilidh?

Answer

Ceilidh dancing usually requires about 25-30 guests to be on the dance floor simultaneously, so we would recommend that your wedding or party should have about 50-60 guests in attendance, as some guests won't want to dance, or only take part in a few dances.

Question 13

Can ceilidh bands perform outdoors?

Answer

In general, ceilidh bands perform indoors, next to the dance floor at your wedding venue. However, ceilidh bands can play outdoors, provided that they have cover from the elements (for example, a marquee) and access to a safe power supply. Even if the weather is good, ceilidh bands will need cover from direct sunlight as this can damage their musical instruments.