Romantic Live Music Ideas for Your Valentine’s Day Event

By Sam Berry

blog

Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with live music? Just take a look at The Beatles, who used the word 'love' a staggering 613 times in their lyrics! Whether you're planning a Valentine's Day dinner or a grand winter ball, a live musician is the perfect way to get the romance flowing.

From soulful singers to jazzy duos and upbeat party bands, we've got a whole line-up of acts ready to bring the atmosphere.

1. Acoustic Guitarists

Nothing sets the mood quite like an acoustic guitarist. From classical to folk and contemporary singer/guitarists, there's a style to suit every kind of Valentine’s event. Whether it’s a surprise proposal (we’ve seen a fair few – all yeses, by the way!), an anniversary celebration or a cosy dinner set-up, live acoustic music never misses.

A classical guitarist can weave in everything from traditional pieces to popular songs with a refined twist, making them ideal for bars, restaurant bookings or more formal occasions. For something a little more relaxed, our singer/guitarists can tailor their sets – mellow and laid-back or lively and upbeat – depending on the atmosphere you’re after.

2. Harpists

Planning a romantic evening at your restaurant or venue? A harpist adds a touch of elegance without overpowering conversation – ideal for Valentine’s dinners where the atmosphere matters as much as the menu.

The harp has long been tied to romance, known for its emotional, expressive sound and connection to the romantic era of music. It’s a subtle yet powerful choice for creating a warm, intimate setting. Take a listen to Estelle performing her version of Can’t Help Falling in Love below.

3. Pianists

Few instruments capture romance quite like the piano. Our Valentine’s pianists offer heartfelt arrangements of everything from Your Song to Friday I’m in Love, perfect for setting the mood – whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, proposal or something more low-key. With or without vocals, the stripped-back sound of piano adds intimacy and charm in all the right places.

Hosting a speed dating night? Our pianists can set the tone with instrumental versions of tracks like Thinking Out Loud and A Sky Full of Stars – just romantic enough to get your hopefuls talking and flirting.

4. Accordionists

Bring a touch of Paris to your Valentine’s celebration with The French Café Accordionist. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or a themed soirée, his nostalgic, melodic sound instantly evokes candlelit evenings by the Seine – no passport required.

Ideal for restaurants, wine bars or private events, his repertoire blends traditional French musette with recognisable classics, creating an atmosphere that’s both charming and unmistakably romantic. It's the kind of background music that invites conversation, connection, and just the right amount of daydreaming.

5. Jazz Bands

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all hearts and clichés – with the right jazz band, it can be effortlessly cool. Whether you're after a laid-back duo for cocktails or a six-piece swing band to get the party going, our jazz and swing acts bring a touch of style and sophistication to any event.

Swing bands, in particular, bring the charm of a bygone era – think 1920s village balls, vintage fashion and couples dancing the night away. Why not lean into the theme with a retro Valentine’s soirée, complete with a live band to match? Check out the Blackbird showreel below for a little inspiration.

6. String Ensembles

Our string quartets are a perfect fit for Valentine-themed events, creating a warm, elegant atmosphere that’s ideal for meaningful conversation and a touch of romance. Let’s be honest – even Pride & Prejudice wouldn’t feel quite so swoon-worthy without the delicate blend of cello, viola and violin.

For more intimate settings, we also offer string trios and duos, giving you the same sophisticated sound in a format that suits your space and budget. Whatever your plans, there’s a string ensemble ready to bring the magic.

7. Function Bands

If you're planning a Valentine’s Ball or evening celebration, a full function band is the way to go. From Motown and soul to indie, pop and rock, our bands cover every genre – with a few guilty-pleasure love songs thrown in, of course.

Whether you're after a high-energy party band, a stripped-back acoustic duo for dinner service, or something that does both, we’ve got acts to suit every space and budget. Many of our bands offer flexible line-ups too, so you can scale things up or down depending on the vibe.

Planning something a bit different, like a Singles Night or Anti-Valentine’s bash? No problem – our bands know how to read the room and keep the floor busy all night long.

Sam Berry

About the author

Trusted member of the Bands For Hire team since 2015. Extensive experience in event planning and as a musician on the live events scene.