Average cost to hire a musician

When planning live entertainment, one of the first questions is: how much does it cost to hire a musician?
On average, solo performers charge between $150–$500 per event, depending on their experience, genre, and duration of the performance.
👉 If you are looking for talented solo artists, explore our solo musicians section.

How much does it cost to hire musicians for weddings?

Live music is one of the most memorable parts of any wedding. Couples often ask: how much does it cost to hire musicians for a wedding?

• Ceremony music (violinist, pianist, harpist): $200–$600
• Cocktail hour / dinner background: $300–$800
• Wedding bands (full lineup): $1,000–$5,000+

For an unforgettable wedding experience, check out our wedding bands and orchestras.

Prices for different types of musicians (solo, band, orchestra)

The cost will vary greatly depending on the size and type of the act:

• Solo musicians: Affordable, versatile, great for small events.
• Bands: Perfect for weddings, corporate parties, festivals.
• Orchestras: Premium choice for large events, gala dinners, luxury venues.

Explore more options in our full catalog of musicians for hire.

Additional costs (travel, equipment, rehearsal)

When budgeting, remember there may be extra expenses:

• Travel & accommodation (if musicians are coming from another city)
• Sound equipment rental (PA system, lights, microphones)
• Rehearsals (if a special program is required)

How to budget for live music at events

The best way to plan is to set your entertainment budget first. Decide how important live music is for your event — centerpiece or background.
A rule of thumb: allocate 10–15% of your total event budget for professional live entertainment.

💡 Pro tip: Booking through an established agency like Rising Stars ensures fair pricing and reliable contracts. See our casting & auditions page if you want tailor-made acts for your event.